President Muizzu announces that no public referendum will be held to gauge the people's opinion on Ras Male' project

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that a public referendum will not be held to gauge public opinion on the Ras Male' project, despite growing concerns over the decision to award the development area to Eagle Hills.

The President made these remarks while responding to a question from a journalist during a press conference held on Monday.

During the press conference, a journalist inquired whether the government intended to hold a referendum to gauge public opinion on the Ras Male' project, citing significant public concern surrounding the initiative. In response, President Muizzu stated categorically that no referendum would be conducted regarding the project.

The President stated that a referendum will not be held because the real estate bill currently proposed by the government addresses the public's concerns in great detail. He further clarified that this project does not warrant a referendum and that no such vote will take place.

Furthermore, the President stated that the government-proposed bill clearly outlines measures to protect the rights of Maldivian citizens, as well as the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the state. He also noted that all provisions have been designed in accordance with the laws and established frameworks of the Maldives.

Opposition figures and members of the public are expressing widespread criticism across social media and various platforms following the decision to award a significant portion of the Ras Male' project to a foreign company. Many have characterized the provision allowing foreign ownership of land under this project as a threat to national security. However, the government maintains that the project will bring substantial advancements to the Maldivian economy.