A petition has been submitted to the People’s Majlis calling for a formal parliamentary inquiry into the Rasmale’ development agreement with UAE-based Eagle Hills.
The petition asks parliament to examine whether the deal complies with constitutional provisions that restrict foreign ownership of land. It also calls for a public debate and greater transparency around the commercial terms of the 99-year lease, including any renewal provisions.
Eagle Hills signed commercial terms on 21 September for a large waterfront, marina and residential project on reclaimed land at Fushidhiggaru lagoon. Critics say the arrangement effectively places control of land reclaimed with public funds in the hands of a foreign company without a public referendum.
Male’ City Council has publicly backed the broader movement opposing the deal. Opposition parties and civil society groups have argued that any change affecting the country’s territory should be put to a vote.
The government has described the project as one of the largest in the country’s history and said it will bring significant economic benefits. It has not confirmed whether the definitive agreement has been signed.
The petition adds to ongoing political and legal pressure surrounding the project, including earlier attempts to challenge the arrangement in the Supreme Court.