Malé City Council to challenge government seizure of 14 land plots

The Maldivian government has seized 14 key land plots previously under the jurisdiction of the Malé City Council, citing the need for infrastructure development and urban expansion in the Greater Malé and Villimale’ areas. The plots include notable locations such as Sultan Park, Rasfannu, the Fish Market, and Artificial Beach.

The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure utilized the 19th Amendment to the Decentralization Act to execute the takeover. While the Ministry maintains the land is required for projects such as an e-sports arena, a museum park, and public service expansions, critics have labeled the legislation the ‘Land Grab Law.’

Opposition figures and Malé Mayor Adam Azim have condemned the move, arguing it undermines the country’s decentralized governance system. The Malé City Council, which holds an MDP majority, has announced plans to launch legal proceedings against the government, claiming the seizure was unlawful and failed to follow mandatory consultation and public feedback procedures required under the Land Act.