While an ACC investigation remains ongoing into initial awarding of fish market project during Muizzu’s tenure as Mayor, gov't awards project to a contractor
The Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure has signed a MVR 126 million agreement with Trusteng Maldives to develop the "Wet Market Complex" in Male'. The project involves the construction of a six-story building that will house dedicated sections for fish and local produce, alongside parking facilities and a food court. While the contractor is mandated to complete the project within 600 days, the development has previously faced scrutiny; an investigation was launched by the Anti-Corruption Commission following allegations of irregularities when the project was initially awarded by the Male' City Council during President Muizzu's tenure as Mayor.
From the ceremony held to award the construction of the Male' Fish Market to a private contractor. | Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure | Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure
While a case remains pending at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) regarding the high-value contracts awarded to two parties for the redevelopment of the Male' Fish Market during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's tenure as Mayor, his administration’s Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure has now reassigned the project to a different contractor.
The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure has announced the signing of an agreement with Trusteng Maldives Private Limited for the development of the Male’ Wet Market Complex. The agreement was signed by Permanent Secretary Mohamed Shamil on behalf of the Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure, while Managing Director Mohamed Abdul Haadhy signed on behalf of Trusteng Maldives Private Limited.
The contract is valued at MVR 126,359,594.94. The project has been awarded with a completion deadline of 600 days.
The primary scope of this project involves the construction of a six-story wet market complex. The facility will feature a dedicated basement level for parking. According to the Ministry, the ground floor will house the fish market, while the first, second, and third floors are designated for fruit and vegetable vendors. Additionally, the fourth floor will be developed as a food court.
While President Muizzu’s administration has now contracted a party to construct the fish market, he had previously awarded the development project to two different companies during his tenure as Mayor.
During President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s tenure as Mayor, the Male’ City Council opened a tender, evaluated bids, and awarded the fish market development project to a specific contractor. At that time, the project was contracted for $6.1 million. A second agreement has now been signed to develop the fish market for $9.5 million, representing an increase of $3.5 million over the original contract price. This new agreement was finalized after President Muizzu was elected to the presidency, but prior to Mayor Azim assuming office.
Although this matter has been submitted to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the commission has yet to confirm whether an official investigation has been launched.
