Opposition alliance on Wednesday announced plans for a mass protest against the alleged sale of an entire Atoll to the Saudi royal family for a staggering USD10 billion worth project.
Maldives United Opposition (MUO) said the nation wide protest would be held on March 24 against a project which it said was a huge concern for the archipelago.
The government has continued to deny the allegations insisting that the deal was part of its wider development plans for the nation.
"No atolls are being sold and the Administration reasserts its point, made by President Yameen on March 2, that any development of Faafu Atoll is part of a wider, multifaceted program to finance a major, multi-billion dollar investment project encompassing mixed development, residential and high class development, and several tourist resorts and airports," a government statement had read.
The statement also insisted that the government led infrastructure projects strictly adhere to regulations and boundaries set out by the Maldivian constitution including environmental laws to ensure the protection of Maldives' fragile ecosystem.
Noting the major economic strides Maldives has made recently, the government highlighted the positive economic assessments made by international financial institutions.
"The Government of Maldives’ plans to develop Faafu atoll, and other regions for the country, is focused on delivering positive outcomes for Maldives and its people."
"“Much like our friends in both the East and West, we remain an open and valued player in the global economy, and should be afforded the ability to expand our economy to propel more and more Maldivians towards middle income status," president Yameen said in the statement.
