The Maldivian Democratic Party has submitted a resolution to its National Council urging the government to hold a public referendum on the Ras Malé waterfront and marina project before proceeding further with the Eagle Hills agreement.
The resolution, moved by Kolamaafushi Constituency President Mahfooz Saeed and seconded by Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, calls for full disclosure of the commercial terms signed on 21 September 2026. Under those terms, the Abu Dhabi-based developer would receive a 99-year lease on roughly 500 hectares of land reclaimed in Fushidhiggaru lagoon without an upfront acquisition payment.
MDP argues that granting long-term control of state land reclaimed with public funds constitutes a matter of national importance that should be put to a vote under the public referendum law. The party has also demanded that no further rights be transferred to Eagle Hills or any third party until the referendum result is known.
The government has described the project as a major investment that will generate tourism revenue, jobs and housing plots for Maldivians on the remaining land. Former presidents have taken differing positions: some support the concept of a waterfront while objecting to the location, secrecy or absence of an advance payment; others have called for the deal to be scrapped.
A constitutional challenge seeking to void the agreement was filed earlier. The resolution further asks MDP to lead public awareness efforts and to consider coordinated action if the government does not respond.
