Resolution on govt’s repossession of 14 council land plots thrown out

The Parliament has rejected a resolution expressing concern over the government’s decision to repossess 14 land plots in Malé, including the Fish Market, Sultan Park and the Carnival area, from the Malé City Council, emphasizing that the move limits the council’s authority, obstructs projects intended to serve the public interest and negatively affects residents.

The resolution, submitted by opposition MDP’s South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem, was put to a preliminary vote to determine whether it would be accepted for debate. Of the 63 members present, 11 voted in favour of debating the resolution, while 52 voted against it.

This is the second resolution submitted since Parliament amended its regulations to introduce a preliminary vote on whether resolutions should be accepted for debate. Under the revised procedure, any resolution that fails to secure approval at this stage is immediately rejected.

The resolution stated that the 14 plots, which are essential for infrastructure development, the expansion of services and urban maintenance in Malé and Vilimalé, were removed from the council’s jurisdiction without prior consultation.

It further noted that the plots generate revenue for the council’s budget, which is specifically used to fund mosque maintenance and administrative operations. The resolution argued that taking control of the land would result in a significant loss of revenue for the council.

The resolution also stated that the Housing Ministry decided to repossess the plots while the council was preparing public-interest projects, including parking buildings, public parks and open spaces. It argued that the decision would significantly affect Malé residents and undermine the council’s legal authority.

The decision to transfer the 14 plots from the Malé City Council back to state control was made on the 15th of this month. Following the Ministry’s decision, the council filed a case at the Civil Court on the 28th of last month, seeking an injunction to prevent the reclamation of the land.