Ministry denies political influence on flat list
The re-evaluation process remains a contentious issue as thousands of applicants await clarity on their housing prospects.
Housing ministry on Tuesday refuted allegations circulating on social media suggesting that Members of Parliament (MPs) and other politicians are influencing the selection process for beneficiaries of the 4,000 flats being developed in the second phase of Hulhumalé under the previous government’s ‘Gedhoruveriyaa Scheme.’
In a press release, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent process, emphasizing that no external influence will affect the ongoing re-evaluation of applications.
The re-evaluation process was initiated after complaints were lodged with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) regarding the list of flat recipients released by the prior administration.
The Ministry also assured the public that the Housing Advisory Committee and the Housing Consultative Committee of the Malé City Council are working diligently to review all submitted applications to ensure that flats are allocated to the most deserving individuals.
The statement read: "The people are assured that no one will influence the re-evaluation of the flat list. The Ministry's objective is to ensure that the most deserving people get flats under the scheme."
The Ministry further urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information for political purposes, emphasizing the sensitivity of the issue given its impact on many citizens' housing aspirations.
Despite the Ministry's assurances, public frustration over the housing issue continues to grow. Protests have erupted against the delay in releasing the revised list of flat recipients, which has now been postponed until the end of the month.
Protesters are also expressing dissatisfaction with the government's refusal to provide land to individuals who were awarded plots under the previous government’s landlord scheme. This has intensified criticism from opposition figures, who allege political bias and mismanagement in handling the housing projects.
