MDP accuses govt of rushing SEZ amendment for political, financial gain

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MPs on Tuesday accused the government of attempting to amend the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act in haste to secure undue financial benefits.

The amendment bill to the SEZ Act was submitted to Parliament on 20 October by People’s National Congress (PNC) Parliamentary Group Deputy Leader and Baarah MP Ibrahim Shujau, on behalf of the government. The Parliament’s Whole Committee began deliberations on the bill on Tuesday, with members noting efforts to expedite its passage.

According to the government, the proposed amendments are intended to clarify the terms and conditions governing the zones and to facilitate the designation of SEZs as “Sustainable Townships.”

However, MDP MPs criticised the move, alleging that the government was pushing the bill without sufficient consultation or review.

During Tuesday’s committee session, MDP members proposed three motions:

MDP MP for Hulhumalé South, Dr Ahmed Shamheed, said the party opposed the bill because it would grant tax relief to new investors in SEZs, putting existing tourism businesses at a disadvantage.

“We believe this amendment will benefit investors in projects initiated under the MDP government in Noonu Atoll,” Dr Shamheed said. “The government is now trying to exempt these projects from taxes and gain profits through them.”

MDP Parliamentary Group Leader and Hithadhoo North MP Ibrahim Nazil also accused the government of seeking to exploit the amendment for financial advantage.

Nazil called for wider consultation on the bill, urging that stakeholders and relevant agencies be invited to provide their views before the committee finalises the report.