Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has ordered the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) to open the Hulhumale’ beach to the public.

In a press release after investigating the businesses in the eastern beach of Hulhumale’, ACC stated that it has ordered HDC to make significant changes to the agreements with the businesses.

In the press release, ACC stated that HDC’s decision to give businesses exclusive rights to the land could be interpreted as an attempt to provide undue benefits and make way for corruption and that while it was a temporary decision, HDC should regulate the businesses and open up the area for bidding to give businesses equal opportunity.

Highlighting that the beach area is currently being used by guesthouses and restaurants, ACC stated that it has received complaints that some have been taking illegal profit by leasing parts of the area.

ACC also stated that HDC has not taken action against businesses that violate the lease agreement and that this also provides undue benefits to the businesses.