Hanimaadhoo residents protest over allocation of their designated land to Hirimaradhoo islanders
Residents of Hanimaadhoo staged a large-scale protest following a decision to allocate land to the people of Hirimaradhoo from an area specifically designated for locals in the island's Land Use Plan. During a motorcycle rally held as part of the demonstration, participants voiced their outrage, asserting that it is unacceptable to grant land to residents of another island before the housing needs of Hanimaadhoo's own citizens have been fully met.
From the motorcycle rally held in Hanimaadhoo on 14.03.2026. | gohkolhu
Residents of HDh. Hanimaadhoo staged a large-scale motorcycle rally on Saturday under the banner "Hanimaadhoo First" to protest the government's decision to allocate land to the residents of Hirimaradhoo from an area originally designated for Hanimaadhoo locals.
A large number of residents participated in a motorcycle rally held on the main streets of Hanimaadhoo yesterday evening. Protesters voiced their concerns while carrying placards inscribed with their grievances.
The protest was sparked by the decision to allocate residential plots to the residents of Hirimaradhoo from an area specifically designated for Hanimaadhoo locals under the island's approved Land Use Plan.
Photos and videos circulating on social media indicate that the primary concern of the island's residents is the prioritization of a relocated population over the local inhabitants in the allocation of land plots. Protesters asserted that land should only be allocated to the people of Hirimaradhoo after the distribution of plots designated for the residents of Hanimaadhoo has been fully completed.
During his visit to Haa Dhaalu Atoll last August, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu met with the residents of Hirimaradhoo and pledged to establish the necessary housing and municipal services in Hanimaadhoo within 18 months. The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has been tasked with the execution of this project.
During that visit, the President stated that every household in Hirimaradhoo would receive a new home in Hanimaadhoo, pledging to complete the project and hand over the keys within 18 months. However, he also clarified at the time that no resident would be forced to relocate against their will. Following the decision to relocate the residents of Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo, the allocation of new land plots in Hirimaradhoo was subsequently suspended.
Amidst growing tensions among the residents of Hanimaadhoo over this issue, the community continues to call for the protection of their rights regarding the island's land.
