Member of commission investigating negligence in Chagos dispute calls for a public referendum regarding Ras Male' project
10 ނޮވެމްބަރު 2026 | އަންގާރަ 07:25Ahmed Ali Manik has called for a public referendum to gauge citizen opinion on leasing the Ras Male' project area to Eagle Hills, citing concerns over potential long-term consequences; however, President Muizzu has rejected the proposal, stating that the matter does not warrant a referendum and confirming that no such vote will be held.
Ahmed Ali Manik, a member of the Presidential Commission established to investigate those responsible for negligence in the Chagos issue. | Social Media
Ahmed Ali Manik, a member of the Presidential Commission established to investigate the Maldives' conduct in ITLOS Case No. 28, has called for a public referendum to determine the citizens' stance on awarding the Ras Male' project area to Eagle Hills.
Ahmed made these remarks in a post on social media. He stated that, given the significant challenges Maldivians may face in the future due to the Ras Male' project, the decision-making should not be confined to a small group of individuals. Instead, he called for a public referendum to ensure the project proceeds with the consent and participation of as many citizens as possible.
Ahmed made these remarks after President Muizzu stated that a referendum or public vote would not be held to gauge public opinion on the Ras Male' project.
During a press conference on Monday, President Muizzu was asked whether the government intended to hold a referendum to gauge public opinion on the Ras Male' project. In response, the President stated that the real estate bill currently proposed by the government addresses public concerns in great detail, asserting that the project does not warrant a referendum and that no such vote will take place.
