Former President Abdulla Yameen has criticised religious scholars for their silence regarding the government's decision to grant permanent control of Rasmalé to Eagle Hills, a company based in the United Arab Emirates.
While the government maintains that Rasmalé was leased for 99 years, Adhadhu understands that the current agreement effectively results in the total loss of the territory. Under the terms, whenever a property owner in Rasmalé sells or gifts their holding, a new 99-year lease period automatically commences.
The government has not yet made the agreement with Eagle Hills public.
A major concern for many Maldivians is the development of the area in a manner that allows foreigners to reside in Rasmalé long-term. To date, only a few scholars have voiced their opinions on the matter.
Speaking at a People's National Front (PNF) rally on Sunday night, Yameen expressed his concern over the scholars' lack of response.
"The scholars have no word on this; they remain silent. What is happening? Yet, look at how they deliver lengthy lectures on fireworks and dress codes. They take up large plots of land to preach to the people. But today, there isn't a single scholar to give a sermon [on this issue]," Yameen said.
Yameen noted that while there are discussions about how long-term leases harm national sovereignty, the core issue with this agreement lies in the potential demographics of those who might settle there.
The government handed over Rasmalé without charging a land acquisition fee or ground rent. Instead, the state will receive a 10 percent fee from the developer’s initial sale of buildings, along with a four percent fee from the buyer. A four percent fee will also be collected every time ownership is transferred.
The reclamation of Rasmalé began with the assurance that it was a project dedicated to providing housing for Maldivians. President Mohamed Muizzu himself had previously pledged that Rasmalé would not be leased to any foreign parties.
