The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) National Council has passed a resolution calling for a public referendum on the proposed Maldives Waterfront and Marina project at Rasmale', contracted to UAE-based Eagle Hills.
The resolution, submitted by Kolamaafushi Constituency President Mahfooz Saeed and seconded by Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, received 57 votes from the 58 members present at an extraordinary meeting. It calls for the publication of the commercial terms of the agreement, a suspension of any transfer of rights over Rasmale' land pending the referendum, and direct action including protests if the government fails to respond.
Former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail supported the resolution and urged members to fill the streets if no referendum is announced by 15 November. He said a project of this scale, involving land reclaimed with state funds, requires public consultation.
The commercial terms to allocate 500 hectares of reclaimed land in Fushidhiggaru lagoon to Eagle Hills for 99 years were signed on 21 September. The government aims to sign the definitive agreement around Republic Day on 11 November.
Former President and MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed has publicly declared full support for the project, distancing himself from calls for stronger opposition action.
The resolution also proposes a specific ballot question on whether to grant the land to Eagle Hills for the development, which includes provisions for foreign residency.
