News Desk
The government will not hold any discussions with former Home Minister Sheikh Imran Abdulla regarding the Rasmalé project, branding him untrustworthy, the President’s Office spokesperson has said.
The spokesperson made the statement in response to a question from local news outlet Sangu, following opposition calls during a press conference where Imran stated he would request a meeting with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to oppose the project. Responding to the request, the spokesperson highlighted that Imran currently holds no official post within the state or any registered political party. He added that the administration does not trust Imran, pointing out that he previously faced accusations of spreading falsehoods regarding the murder of the late MP Dr Afrasheem Ali.
Imran played a key role in raising the political profile of current President Dr. Muizzu, with whom he affiliated in the aftermath of the event that forced Mohamed Nasheed’s resignation.
Ironically, several individuals currently serving inside the administration were previously allied with Imran during the high-profile opposition campaign against the leasing of Velana International Airport to Indian infrastructure group GMR.
While ruling out direct talks with Imran, the spokesperson noted that the government would consider any formal request for consultation submitted by an established political party. He added that members of the People’s Majlis and members of the public can seek meetings with the President through standard procedures. The spokesperson accused opposition figures of using political podiums to mislead the public rather than seeking genuine clarification on national matters.
The government’s response follows a joint press conference held by Sheikh Imran alongside representatives from the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and People’s National Front (PNF) against handing over the Rasmalé development to UAE-based Eagle Hills. During the briefing, Imran announced a national movement dubbed “Maldivian Land for Maldivians” and alleged that the massive reclamation initiative is being run for President Muizzu’s personal interest.
