President Mohamed Muizzu declared last night that he will not take any action that undermines the fundamental pillars of the nation.
Speaking at the official function held to mark Victory Day, Muizzu said that he would not engage in any activity that compromises the Maldives' hundred percent Islamic identity, its full independence, or the sovereignty of the Maldivian people.
"I give you my full assurance that I will not do anything that would cause even the slightest harm to any national pillar, such as the Maldives' hundred percent Islamic identity, the full independence of Maldivians, and our sovereignty," Muizzu said.
He emphasised that every step he takes and every decision he makes will be aimed at benefiting and ensuring the protection of all national elements.
"Every step I take and every decision I make will be to ensure full vitality, prosperity, protection, and security for all Maldivian national elements. It is with that noble purpose, and with the high honour and certainty of securing a more developed life for the Maldivian citizens," he added.
Furthermore, Muizzu said that the country must embrace revolutionary changes that will positively impact the national treasury while ensuring that the "red lines" of nationalism, independence, and sovereignty remain uncompromised.
Noting that facing these revolutionary changes would establish the state's capacity for the development desired by the people, Muizzu said this would strengthen the economic backbone of the Maldivian state in its international dealings and secure economic independence.
The President made these remarks following the government's decision to hand over a portion of Rasmalé—a land reclamation project announced for public housing—to UAE-based Eagle Hills.
The government claims that Rasmalé is being leased for 99 years. As current laws do not permit this, the government is working to draft new legislation to facilitate the project. Efforts are also underway to sign the definitive agreement within this month.
The government agreed to hand over Rasmalé without charging an acquisition fee or ground rent. The only revenue for the state will be 10 percent of the proceeds from the sale of commercial properties and four percent of the revenue from apartment sales in Rasmalé.
