Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Fayyaz Ismail has underscored that although efforts to address the housing issue began towards the end of the previous government's tenure it will still benefit all citizens.
Speaking at a campaign event, Fayyaz highlighted the MDP government's commitment to tackling housing challenges. He acknowledged significant progress made during their term but noted that a comprehensive solution was not fully achieved until the end of their tenure. Fayyaz mentioned the MDP government's strategy of expanding the Greater Male' Region, including areas like Gulhifalhu, Giraavarufalhu, and Uthuru thila falhu.
In criticism of the current administration's policies, Fayyaz questioned the feasibility of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's proposed tunnel between Rasmale' and Male' City as a housing solution, citing its high estimated cost of at least USD200 billion. He maintained skepticism despite the previous government's allocation of land from reclaimed areas like Giraavarufalhu and Gulhifalhu for housing Male' residents.
Additionally, Fayyaz criticised the government's decision to allocate land in Uthuru thila falhu for agricultural cultivation, suggesting that the MDP government would repurpose such areas for housing. He expressed commitment to ensuring food security within the next five years by diversifying agricultural production in the Maldives. Fayyaz mentioned an agreement with a Chinese company to reclaim 200 hectares of land in Uthuru thila falhu for integrated agricultural development, aiming to meet the food needs of Maldivian citizens.