A petition has been submitted to the People’s Majlis regarding the controversial sale of Rasmalé to Mohamed Alabbar, a UAE businessman known for his close ties to Israel and Zionist interests.
The petition, filed by opposition People's National Front (PNF) activist Haleemath Zuhaira, calls for a comprehensive inquiry before any legislation is enacted to facilitate the sale of Rasmalé.
"The petition urges the relevant committee to conduct a full and open public inquiry into this agreement, utilising the Majlis's powers to summon testimony and documentation from the government and all relevant institutions, before the state finalises any agreement or passes any law enabling this transaction," the document states.
Furthermore, the petition calls for a public parliamentary debate on the Rasmalé issue and seeks an independent legal opinion to ensure that the deal complies with Article 251 of the Constitution, which prohibits foreign ownership of Maldivian land.
"The Majlis should seek independent legal advice to determine if this agreement, including provisions for renewable lease terms upon transfer, aligns with Article 251 of the Constitution. Additionally, the Majlis should decide whether to refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an advisory opinion under Article 95 of the Constitution," the petition further noted.
While the government maintains that Rasmalé is being leased for 99 years, Alabbar’s company, Eagle Hills, has indicated that if the property is sold before the initial 99-year lease expires, a new 99-year lease term would commence.
