The Housing Bill, submitted to the People’s Majlis to provide a legal framework for resolving the housing crisis, remains stalled at the committee stage, with the Housing Committee failing to convene a single meeting for the past six months.
The bill, introduced on May 7 last year by Maafannu Central MP Asma Rasheed of the People’s National Congress (PNC), saw its last committee review session on November 5, 2025.
The committee is chaired by Ibrahim Falah, the MP for Inguraidhoo and Parliamentary Group Leader of the ruling PNC.
The sole item currently on the committee’s agenda is the review of the Housing Bill.
Speaking to Adhadhu, several PNC MPs within the committee blamed Falah's failed leadership for the prolonged delay in the bill's review.
"Even though Falah is the PG Leader, he is not convening the committee. There is no effort to hold meetings," one PNC MP stated.
Ibrahim Mohamed (Kudu), the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP for Galolhu North who also sits on the committee, echoed these concerns, stating that the committee’s progress has been halted by Falah.
"There is no intention to hold a meeting. Even when one is held, it is concluded within about five minutes," he said.
The bill is designed to strengthen national housing policies and establish criteria that prioritize vulnerable families. Key provisions include assessing the living conditions of those in need of housing, implementing specialized programs for low-income families, and ensuring transparency by registering developers. It also aims to mandate minimum standards for facilities and essential services in housing developments.
President Mohamed Muizzu has previously pledged to resolve the housing crisis within his five-year term.
