Maldivian Democratic Party Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed has declared his full support for the government’s plan to lease land in Rasmalé to Eagle Hills for the Maldives Waterfront and Marina project.
Speaking at an MDP National Council meeting called to debate a resolution seeking a public referendum and direct action if the government does not hold a vote, Nasheed said he fully supported the project. He was the only member to speak against the resolution, which later passed with 57 votes in favour out of 58 present.
Nasheed noted that Maldivians are descendants of people who migrated to the islands from elsewhere and argued that such decisions could produce positive long-term results. He referenced historical arrivals of ships at islands including Hoarafushi and Dhuvaafaru.
Other senior figures, including former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail, supported the resolution calling for a halt to further rights transfers pending a public vote and for coordinated protests if that demand is not met. Nasheed requested that the party adhere to a previous public statement on the project.
His position highlights divisions within the MDP over the multi-billion-dollar development, which has become a central point of political debate.
