A formal complaint has been filed at the Anti-Corruption Commission following President Mohamed Muizzu's decision to offer MVR 100,000 "special allowance" for people who live in Sinamalé and Malé Hiyaa flats ahead of elections.

ACC media officer Aishath Sama told Adhadhu that discussions were underway to decide on accepting the case.

With the April 4 local council elections looming, there is room to assume that the announcement of such a huge expenditure from the state budget as "special allowance" would influence votes.

Adhadhu understands that there are 161 apartments in four Sinamalé building and two Malé Hiyaa buildings. MVR 16.1 million will be spent to provide MVR 100,000 to each apartment.

The decision was announced during Muizzu's meeting with residents of Sinamalé and Malé Hiyaa flats in Galolhu district of Male' yesterday (February 16) at Mulee’aage, the President's official residence.

Moosa Ali Jaleel, the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) candidate for Male' Mayor in the local council elections, participated in the event. Deputy Mayor Ahmed Areesh, who is seeking re-election, was also in attendance.

During the meeting, residents briefed Muizzu on their current living conditions and difficulties in paying outstanding rent and penalty charges. The residents had previously complained that the structure of the flats had deteriorated.

"In response, the President assured that a special allowance will be granted to residents of Sinamalé Flats 1, 2, 3 and 4, as well as Malé Hiyaa Flats 1 and 2. He further decreed that all penalties on outstanding rent be waived," the President's Office said.

The President's Office said a payment of MVR 100,000 will be provided to families residing in these flats, "taking into account the prolonged failure to address structural issues and deterioration of the buildings."

"Where the total outstanding amount exceeds MVR 100,000, the amount payable will be capped at MVR 100,000. If the outstanding amount is less than MVR 100,000, it will be fully waived and the remaining balance deposited into the resident’s account. Residents who have already settled the full payment for their flats will receive the full MVR 100,000 directly into their accounts," the President's Office added.