Former President Mohamed Nasheed has expressed confidence that the new Managing Director of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), Mauroof Jameel, will bring much-needed reforms to the corporation following the ongoing police investigation into land allocation issues.
Unfair Land Allocations in the Binveriyaa Scheme
In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Nasheed criticized the previous government's handling of the Binveriyaa land list, claiming that the allocation was done unfairly. He emphasized that the land distribution was not just a concern now, but something he had raised earlier. Nasheed highlighted that the issue of unfair land allocations continues to be a problem, with the newly uncovered issues regarding Hulhumalé land allocations adding another layer to the ongoing concerns.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Involvement
Nasheed pointed out that, unlike the past, this issue is currently under investigation by the Maldives Police Service. He expressed his belief that the police would conduct a thorough investigation and that accountability would be pursued in relation to the unfair land allocations.
The investigation into the Binveriyaa and Gedhoruveriyaa schemes has sparked significant public concern. Nasheed’s confidence in the police's ability to handle the matter reflects his hopes for a resolution that addresses the wrongdoing while ensuring transparency and fairness in future allocations.
Changes in HDC Leadership
The leadership change at HDC is a critical development in addressing these concerns. Following the resignation of the former HDC Managing Director, Fazul Rasheed, amid the ongoing investigation, the entire HDC board, except for the Chairman, Ahmed Nasif (Didi), has been suspended. This action was taken to allow the investigation to proceed without interference.
Nasheed praised the decision to appoint Mauroof Jameel as the new Managing Director of HDC. He expressed optimism that Jameel would introduce reforms to improve the operations of HDC and prevent similar issues in the future.
Employment Changes Amid Investigation
In addition to leadership changes, a number of personnel have been impacted by the investigation. Fifteen HDC employees, along with ten staff members from the Ministry of Housing, were fired to support the investigation. This drastic step is part of the efforts to clear the way for a fair inquiry into the land allocation schemes.
Moreover, some former officials from the previous administration have faced additional consequences, with their passports seized as part of the investigation into potential wrongdoing.
As the investigation unfolds and HDC works to reform its practices, it is clear that the public is closely watching how the situation will evolve. Nasheed’s confidence in Mauroof Jameel’s leadership, alongside the ongoing investigation, provides a sense of hope for those seeking accountability and transparency in the allocation of land and resources in the Maldives.
While the situation remains fluid, it is clear that substantial changes are underway at HDC. The public and stakeholders in the housing sector will be looking for further updates on the investigation and any new developments in HDC’s operations.
