Sheikh Zamzam Farish has accused Home Minister Ali Ihusaan of intimidation and threats following Farish’s criticism of the decision to hand over the Rasmalé project to Eagle Hills, a company based in the United Arab Emirates.
Zamzam levelled accusations of intimidation after Ihusaan claimed that the Sheikh was spreading falsehoods regarding matters of national security.
"You may issue such threats today because you hold power. You may even imprison me. But remember, there is a day when we shall meet again. Fear Allah. Fear His wrath," Zamzam stated in a post on Facebook.
The Home Minister’s "warning" to Zamzam was also issued via Facebook. Ihusaan alleged that Zamzam was spreading "deceptive narratives intended to incite discord" regarding the Rasmalé project.
"While false information is being spread to incite public discord regarding this project, I urge you not to disseminate lies concerning national security matters. If you lack information on these subjects, I advise you to seek clarification from the relevant authorities," Ihusaan stated.
A secret agreement to hand over Rasmalé to Eagle Hills was signed on September 21. Rasmalé, which was reclaimed using state funds, is being handed over without any acquisition costs or land rent.
The government maintains that Rasmalé is being leased for 99 years. As current laws do not permit such an arrangement, the administration is working to draft new legislation to facilitate the project. Efforts are currently underway to sign a permanent agreement by November 11.
Although the government claims the lease period for Rasmalé is 99 years, Eagle Hills stated that any party purchasing property in Rasmalé would be granted a fresh 99-year lease period upon acquisition.
