The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has scheduled a National Council meeting for Sunday night to address the government’s move to lease a portion of Rasmalé to Eagle Hills, a UAE-based firm known for its ties to Israel.
In a message sent to the National Council group, the party announced that the meeting will take place at 8:30 pm on Sunday, November 1, to determine the party's official stance and actions regarding the Rasmalé deal.
The decision to convene the meeting follows a formal request by more than 60 members of the National Council. Members of the council also held an informal gathering last Friday to discuss the matter.
The MDP has already issued a press statement regarding the Rasmalé deal, demanding full transparency. The party asserted that the government lacks the authority to implement policies that would allow foreign ownership of Maldivian land, maintaining that such a decision rests solely with the people.
Despite the party's stance, MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed issued a veiled warning last week to party lawmakers speaking out against Eagle Hills.
Nasheed noted that former Henveiru Central MP Ali Azim was expelled from the party in 2023 for expressing views contrary to party policy. However, the MDP has yet to reach a formal decision on its position regarding the Rasmalé project.
While Nasheed has publicly advocated for the Rasmalé deal across various platforms, his position is met with internal opposition. Sources indicate that the upcoming National Council meeting was called due to this internal rift and the widespread concerns among the party's leadership.
