Former vice-president Mohamed Jameel Ahmed has described the government’s proposed amendment to the Penal Code as a “Jewish agenda,” arguing it is designed to restrict speech critical of Israel and related projects.
In a social media post, Jameel said the bill, prepared under the Attorney General’s Office and submitted by a ruling-party lawmaker, aims to silence opposition to the Ras Male development involving UAE-based Eagle Hills. He claimed the changes would criminalise comments directed at a particular religion or race in a manner that could suppress discussion of Zionism or the deal.
Jameel questioned whether the Maldives, described as a 100 percent Muslim country, was becoming a multi-religious state, and argued that the amendment contradicts Quranic teachings regarding Jews and Christians. He further alleged the bill undermines national identity.
The amendment has already been listed on the parliamentary agenda twice before being withdrawn. Critics have raised concerns that provisions on economic sabotage and related offences could be used against those opposing large-scale foreign investment projects.
Government officials have previously stated that the Ras Male agreement with Eagle Hills does not transfer land ownership and complies with constitutional limits on foreign leases. The commercial terms were signed in September, with a definitive agreement expected later this year.
Jameel’s comments add to ongoing public and parliamentary debate over the project and associated legislative changes.
