Law does not permit providing housing by compromising national sovereignty or by allowing the country's resources to be plundered: Ali Hussain
25 އޮކްޓޯބަރު 2026 | އާދީއްތަ 22:27Former Member of Parliament Ali Hussain has asserted that housing cannot be provided in a manner that violates Article 23 of the Constitution or compromises state sovereignty and independence. He highlighted that allocating a vast tract of land to a foreign entity for the Ras Malé project—without a gazetted policy or an established legal framework—constitutes a direct violation of constitutional principles.
Legal professional and former Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, Ali Hussain. | raajjemv
Legal expert and former Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency, Ali Hussain, has stated that the Constitution of the Maldives does not permit providing housing to citizens by compromising national sovereignty or allowing the country’s resources to be plundered.
Speaking at the "Dhivehinge Bin Dhivehinnah" forum, Ali Hussain stated that it is essential today to reflect on how Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed the presidency of the Maldives. He noted that when examining the legal basis for his appointment to the position, it is clear that these procedures are enshrined within the "Green Constitution."
In which code or document is it stated that the individual who secures the most votes in a Maldivian election shall be the person sworn in as President? On what basis and under what written authority is Dr. Muizzu being declared the President of the Maldives? The answer to that question is very clear. It is written within what we call the "Green Constitution" of the Maldives.Ali Hussain
Ali Hussain stated that the Constitution also contains specific provisions regarding state property and housing rights.
One of the most significant points is the provision under Article 23 of the Constitution, which mandates that the State must provide housing, shelter, and other essential services to the extent of its resources and capabilities.
The Constitution does not advocate for the selling out of the nation or its sovereignty, nor does it permit the country to be plundered. Rather, it mandates that state responsibilities be fulfilled within the limits of the government's capacity and financial resources. Article 23 of the Constitution provides no legal basis for actions that compromise the nation's independence, nor does it allow for any interference with the livelihoods, stability, security, freedom, or sovereignty of the Maldivian people.Ali Hussain
Ali Hussain stated that according to Article 61 (a) and (c) of the Constitution, any established policy must be published in the Government Gazette.
Attorney General Ahmed Usham has stated that, to date, only a Letter of Intent (Commercial Terms Agreement) has been signed regarding the Ras Malé project. Usham further noted that before physical work on the project can commence, definitive agreements must be signed following further negotiations based on the terms of the initial document. However, Ali Hussain has asserted that there is currently no policy framework in place under which such an agreement could be signed.
Ali Hussain noted that the Attorney General had stated that relevant laws must be passed by the People's Majlis regarding this matter. He urged the public to consider whether it is constitutional to sign over more than 500 hectares of land in Ras Male' to a foreign entity before the necessary legislation has even been enacted. Furthermore, Ali Hussain asserted that the Constitution does not grant anyone the authority to act based on a policy that does not currently exist.
