Ilyas pledges housing for 25,000 families

The Democrats candidate Ilyas Labeeb has pledged to provide housing from Malé region for 25,000 families before his term end if elected for presidency.

Ilyas made these remarks during one of his visits as part of his serial door-to-door campaign activities in Malé City. He pledged to transform Malé into a prosperous and safe place.

Under The Democrats’ “Veshifahi Malé Program” Ilyas said the families living in 10 of the most densely populated blocks will be extended the opportunity to move to five larger condominium unit blocks, with participation in the program made optional.

The vacated 10 blocks will also be gentrified into modern condominium blocks according to The Democrats, which added that residents of 20 other densely populated blocks would be moved to them. The party envisions a sequential gentrification of over 160 blocks under the initiative.

The party highlighted that letters signed by Ilyas, along with leaflets and posters, are presently being distributed to 4,187 residents above 18 years of age residing in the 10 most densely populated blocks. These materials offer information about the party's housing policies.

The Democrats assured all participants above the age of 18 years will be eligible for the condominiums. The condominiums will be either two-bedroom or three-bedroom units.

“The proprietor will receive compensation for the land while the building owner will receive compensation for the property,” The Democrats’ founder Mohamed Nasheed said.

According to The Democrats, despite the current government's assertions regarding the allocation of plots from Giraavaru lagoon and Gulhifalhu, it would require approximately 15 years for these islands to undergo complete infrastructural development, including reclamation, revetment, shore protection, road development, water, and sanitation.

The Democrats further said that such a long period will negatively impact the society including rise of criminal activities, drug abuse among youth, and family disputes.

The recently formed political party further said this was a tried and tested model in more established countries including Malaysia and Singapore.