ACC stops long-term lease of Farukolhufushi

Oct 30, 2023, 9:16 AM
Farukolhufushi. -- Photo: Urbanco

Farukolhufushi. -- Photo: Urbanco

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has stopped Hulhumale' developer Urbanco's efforts to lease the Farukolhufushi section of Hulhumale' phase two for a long period.

The ACC's media team confirmed the intervention to Adhadhu.

"It was in relation to a complaint filed here over plans to lease Farukolhufushi to a party for a long period. The ACC ordered the transaction to be halted until the case is finished," the ACC media official said.

The order to stop Urbanco's efforts to lease the land comes after the President-Elect's office called for a suspension of transactions related to Hulhumale' land.

In a statement released on Sunday, the office said it has learned that 40 items about various transactions related to Hulhumale' land have been placed in the agenda of the next Urbanco board meeting, which it said was a matter of serious concern.

"As Hulhumale' lands are the most expensive assets under the Maldivian state's ownership, this office is concerned about hastily conducting commercial transactions related to the land during this stage," the Transition Office said in the statement.

The items on the agenda for the next meeting of Urbanco's board also include transactions on leasing land to foreign parties, the statement noted.

However, neither the office nor the ACC has confirmed whether Farukolhufushi was among the 40 items.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

MMA restricts medical USD allowance to six countries

The Maldives Monetary Authority has restricted the $1,000 medical currency allowance to six specific countries to ensure funds are used for their intended purpose. This change follows a surge in foreign currency demand for private travel. The $2,000 allowance for state-funded Aasandha patients remains unchanged.

Scholars Union warn Rasmalé deal threatens Islamic unity

The Union of Religious Scholars warns that the Rasmalé land deal with a UAE-based firm threatens the Maldives' Islamic identity and sovereignty. They expressed concerns to the government about the settlement of foreigners and the potential permanent loss of territory. The group has urged the President to reconsider the 99-year lease agreement.

Prosecution alleges Yameen orchestrated MMPRC embezzlement

Prosecutors allege former Maldives President Abdulla Yameen orchestrated the MMPRC embezzlement scandal to secure illicit funds. During a hearing on the Raa Fuggiri lease, the state claimed Yameen abused his power to accept $1.1 million in bribes and launder money, using his influence over former VP Ahmed Adeeb to execute the scheme.

Staff shortages stall investigations, NIC tells Majlis

The National Integrity Commission told Parliament that a shortage of investigators has caused a significant backlog of unresolved cases. Despite receiving 196 complaints last year, mostly against the police, the commission struggled with only four to nine staff members. Priority is now being given to clearing these pending investigations.

RDC ordered to pay MVR 11.7 million to Indian firm

The Maldives Civil Court has ordered the Road Development Corporation (RDC) to pay MVR 11.7 million to India’s Lucky Global Projects in a single lump sum. Despite RDC’s request for installments due to financial distress, the court ruled for full payment because the creditor refused to accept a staggered schedule.

Three Bangladeshis remanded after police seize alcohol bottles

Three Bangladeshi nationals were remanded in custody following a police raid on a large-scale distribution network in Henveiru. Authorities seized 826 bottles of alcohol stored in a local warehouse. The suspects, aged 25 to 43, were ordered to be held for periods ranging from five to 15 days as investigations continue.

Elderly pilgrims prioritised with new policy for seniors over 70

A new policy prioritizes first-time pilgrims over age 70 for the next Hajj, granting spots to 324 seniors on the waiting list. While this may delay younger applicants by a year, it ensures elderly citizens can fulfill their religious duties. One family member may also be prioritized to accompany them for support.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox