The government has failed to fulfil President Mohamed Muizzu's pledge to establish basic facilities in the 100 housing units built in Thaa Vilufushi by the previous administration.

The Housing Ministry yesterday (January 11) announced the rules for allocating the housing units and opened applications.

In September last year, Muizzu said the electricity, water and sewerage services would be installed by the end of 2025.

“By the end of this year [2025] at the latest, within the remaining three months, we will hopefully complete it,” Muizzu said during a visit to the island.

"That's the last date."

But, practical work to establish the service has not begun. The government has not disclosed a reason for the delay.

According to an announcement made by the Housing Ministry ahead of the local council elections, the deadline for applications will be April 11. Voting for the council elections will be held on April 4.

"This is done for the election. It is unacceptable that two years have passed without establishing basic services in houses that were almost completed when Muizzu came to power. Nothing has been started yet," a person from Vilufushi said.

"The deadline for applications ends on April 11. We don't know how long they will take to hand over the units after the elections."

Housing units built in Vilufushi.

The 3-bedroom houses will be allocated to Vilufushi natives and residents who have lived in the island for more than 10 years.

According to the rules, the highest priority will be given to families with many children.

In addition to the handover of 100 houses, another 100 houses will be constructed this year, Muizzu earlier said.