Some opposition lawmakers in favour of Faafu atoll mega project

Some lawmakers of main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has expressed support for the mega investment to be brought to Faafu atoll.

Speaking with regards to the Faafu Atoll integrated tourism development project at the parliamentary Public Finance Committee meeting, opposition lawmaker of Komandoo Constituency Ahmed Nashid declared that he has never witnessed or heard of an investment worth USD 1 Billion being made in the Maldives before, and that he would wholeheartedly welcome any such projects.

However, he expressed concern that the state has not revealed any details of the project yet, and urged the government to disclose the details to increase public confidence in the state.

Noting that no government would allow any harm to its citizens, Naashid highlighted the development of the Palm Island Resort in Dubai. He stressed that Dubai’s key development strategy is to allow freehold of its lands.

“As Dubai models cannot be enforced in Saudi, I would welcome any such projects to be conducted in the Maldives,” added Naashid.

Meanwhile, parliamentary group leader and lawmaker of Hinnavaru constituency, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih stated that if the government has entered into any agreements with a foreign state over Faafu Atoll, it has to be submitted to the committee.

He added that MDP will not obstruct any development projects, but stressed that the Finance Committee must be informed of any such ventures.

Lawmaker of Maradhoo Constituency Ibrahim Shareef also stated that Faafu Atoll cannot be sold off but massive projects can be conducted in the atoll according to the Constitution.

Chair of the Committee and PG leader of ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) Ahmed Nihan said that he hopes for the government to release details of the project to the committee, adding that ministers will be summoned to the committee for further questioning.

It is rumoured that a part of Faafu Atoll is being sold to the Saudi Royal Family. However, the Cabinet Ministers and government aligned lawmakers have denied such claims.

According to the Constitution, if a foreign authority wishes to conduct a project by buying land in the Maldives, details of the project must be submitted to the Public Finance Committee of the parliament.