Public outrage grows over final flat list

The revised list of recipients for the 4,000 housing units in Hulhumalé has sparked criticism, with many questioning the fairness of the selection process. The list, released last Thursday after a government review, reduced the number of eligible recipients to 1,820, leaving 2,695 applicants ineligible and removing 424 names.

Critics on social media argue that the revised list does not reflect a fair selection process. Many believe that the eligibility criteria were manipulated to favor certain individuals.

"The conditions are fulfilled by the person they want to give. The list is not eligible, the list of conditions given flats," one person expressed frustration online.

Others allege that their removal was politically motivated, claiming they were cut from the list due to their opposition to the government.

One of the primary reasons cited by the Housing Ministry for ineligibility was documentation issues, particularly proof of residence in Malé for 15 years. However, some applicants dispute this reasoning.

A man who was declared ineligible voiced his frustration online, stating that he had provided a council document confirming his 15-year residence in Malé but was still removed from the list. Others in the private sector feel unfairly excluded despite meeting the criteria.

Since the list was opened for complaints on Saturday, over 600 grievances have been submitted, according to the Housing Ministry. Many, however, doubt whether these complaints will be properly addressed.

"I'm not going to get a flat by filing a complaint. I've been in Malé for forty years but I don't meet the requirements," one individual lamented.

As dissatisfaction grows, many are demanding that the government cancel the current list and conduct another review to ensure flats are awarded fairly.