Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has responded to former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom for describing Eagle Hills’ proposed Rasmalé mega project as a “Jewish settlement”, accusing him of distorting facts and exploiting religious sentiments for political gain.
Responding to Yameen’s statement, Ihusaan said the description was a “blatant distortion of facts” and an attempt to use religious sentiments to spread fear, hatred and misinformation.
“The Maldivian people’s unwavering support for Palestine is not a political weapon to be used to spread fear, hatred and misinformation,” Ihusaan said.
The minister also accused Yameen of opposing the investment because it had not materialised during his presidency, arguing that political differences should not obstruct national development.
“National development must never become hostage to personal political bitterness,” Ihusaan said.
He added that criticism of government policies was legitimate but urged political leaders to avoid what he described as the manufacture of religious divisions and the misleading of the public.
“The Maldives deserves responsible leadership, not reckless fearmongering,” the minister said.
Yameen had earlier called on Eagle Hills to abandon the Rasmalé project, describing the developer as exploitative and accusing the government of betraying the sentiments of a Muslim-majority society that strongly supports Palestine.
The proposed Maldives Waterfront and Marina project was agreed with UAE-based Eagle Hills in September. The government has presented the development as a major investment intended to expand infrastructure, housing and economic opportunities.
The exchange marks a further escalation in the political debate surrounding Rasmalé, with critics questioning the agreement and its implications for Maldivians, while the government has defended the project against accusations directed at the developer.
