The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has stated that the government does not hold legal authority to grant land ownership to foreigners without a national referendum.
The party raised concerns over transparency in the major lagoon deal with a UAE firm for the Rasmale project. It demanded full public disclosure of the agreement’s terms and any potential land rights.
Under the Constitution, certain transfers of land rights to foreigners require specific procedures. The opposition argues the current approach bypasses necessary safeguards.
The government has previously maintained that the deal complies with the law and does not violate constitutional provisions on land ownership. Attorney General statements have addressed related questions.
The issue remains a point of political debate as the project advances.