Hamdhaan: No further rent reductions for flats despite protests calling for resignation
Protesters gathered in Hulhumale’ on Wednesday night to demand that the government reduce social housing rent to the rates initially set by the previous administration. Participants highlighted that moving into the newly developed flats has already incurred significant personal expenses for finishing works, arguing that while the current government pledged to ease the public's financial burden, its current policies are instead causing undue hardship and strain on their livelihoods.
Protesters gather in Hulhumale' over the allocation of Fahi Dhiriulhun flats. | Social Media | Social Media
Recipients of the Fahi Dhiriulhun flats have held a protest calling for the resignation of Hamdhan Shakeel, the Managing Director of Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC).
Protesters shared significant concerns during a demonstration held in Hulhumale' on Wednesday night.
In this regard, calls have been made to reduce the flat rents to the rates previously established during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration.
Initially, the rates were set at MVR 6,000 for a two-bedroom apartment and MVR 8,000 for a three-bedroom apartment, inclusive of maintenance fees. However, the current administration has revised these rates, requiring tenants to pay MVR 7,000 for a two-bedroom unit and MVR 10,000 for a three-bedroom unit, including maintenance charges.
Protesters stated that moving into the Fahi Dhiriulhun flats has required extensive additional work, resulting in significant out-of-pocket expenses. They expressed frustration, noting that while this administration claimed it would provide relief and ease, it is instead causing undue hardship in their daily lives.
Protesters calling for the resignation of FDC’s Managing Director, Hamdhaan, stated that despite repeatedly raising their concerns, the corporation has failed to address any grievances or provide adequate services. The protesters further asserted that the recurring practice of granting rent waivers to Hiyaa flat owners in connection with elections infringes upon the rights of many. They demanded an end to the use of such housing issues for political gain.
Furthermore, the protesters called for the rent-free grace period to be extended to one year.
Speaking to a local news outlet regarding the matter, Hamdhaan stated that there are no plans to provide further concessions on the rent for those flats.
The 4,000 housing units constructed under the previous administration's "Gedhoruveriyaa" scheme consist of 1,250 two-bedroom apartments and 2,750 three-bedroom apartments.
