President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu says that funding has been arranged to reclaim the Fushidhiggaru Falhu, adding that the government will not need to spend anything on the project – which is part of his administration’s plan to provide a permanent solution to the housing crisis in the Maldivian capital.

The Rasmale’ reclamation project in Fushidhiggaru Falhu was inaugurated earlier this week. However, the Parliament, when it passed next year’s state budget, had cut the allocation for the project.

President Muizzu expressed concern over the move during his speech at the Kangathi Awards held on Wednesday night.

He said that a project of such magnitude requires a budget. But that the Parliament had cut the budget for the project without any consultation with the government.

He questioned whether the decision, made regarding a project that is of such public interest, was truly in accordance with the will of the Maldivian people.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu (L) and Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef (R) attend the Kangathi Awards on December 20, 2023. (Photo/President's Office)

“Was this decision made in favor of the people? Was this decision on the side of this country? But the People’s Majlis of the Maldivian people has decided so,” he said.

President Muizzu said that his administration has arranged funding for the project through an alternative source, and that it requires no spending from the government.

But he did not share details.

President Muizzu said that the lack of housing is a concern shared by all Maldivian citizens he has met.

He said that he still remembers the stories of difficulties shared by the people, and feels their pain.

I decided to reclaim Fushidhiggaru Falhu and develop the Rasmale’ city there to provide a solution to all these people, he said.

Fushidhiggaru Falhu land reclamation project is inaugurated on December 18, 2023. (Photo/President's Office)

“I want to bring in an age where no Maldivian citizen needs to shed tears over the housing crisis. To have new Maldivian generations live in the most modern cities,” he said.

President Muizzu said that he does not wish to see people forced to beg for housing.

He said that making decisions in favor of the Maldivian people is crucial to the development of the country.