Protestors against foreign ownership of land

A protest has been held against the amendment to the Constitution that allows foreign investors above USD 1 billion to own land in the Maldives.

MP of the Kendhoo constituency, Ali Hussain and the Housing Minister of the MDP government, Mohamed Aslam also took part in the protest today held near Artificial Beach on Boduthakurufaanu Magu.

Aside from them, the former MP for the Hoarafushi constituency, Ahmed Rasheed and the ruling party, PPM’s Council Member and the Malé City Council Member, Zaidulla Ameen also took part in the protest.

The protestors raised their voice against the amendment with different banners. And the protestors said that such a change should be made with a vote of the people.

A petition was also started today to calling for a vote under the power authorized to the President under Article 115-P of the Constitution.

President Abdulla Yamin Abdul Gayoom has said that under the amendment, land would be given to foreign investments about USD 1 billion after the Parliament passes to do so.

The President also has said that only businesses authorized by the government can be conducted on the lands given to foreign investors and their investments would boost the development of the country.