The housing industry in the Maldives continues to be a source of controversy, with successive governments canceling and amending housing allocation lists. Thousands of individuals are now in a condition of uncertainty as a result of this ongoing reorganisation, underscoring the enduring problems of equity and openness in the allocation of public housing.
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| Hulhumale phase II |
A Recurrent Cycle of Uncertainty
The story is a familiar one for many Maldivians. Every new administration inherits housing lists from its predecessor, only to discard them and issue new ones under the banner of "fairness." This cycle was evident in the Hiyaa housing project initiated under former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and continued with the Homeowner scheme under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Both projects aimed to provide affordable housing but were marred by allegations of favoritism and political bias.
Now, under the leadership of President Mohamed Muizzu, the focus has shifted to addressing what his administration describes as the "unjust" allocation of flats by the previous government. However, thousands of applicants continue to wait for clarity and fairness in the process.
The High-Stakes Housing Projects
One of the largest undertakings is the 4,000-unit housing project in Hulhumalé Phase II. These towering 18-story buildings stand completed, yet the list of recipients remains in limbo. As of now, the 15,000-plus applicants who were excluded from the initial list anxiously await a revised announcement.
For many, this wait is a matter of survival as much as housing. While younger, more recent occupants were able to get apartments, a 40-year-old single mother was devastated to see her name left off the list. Thousands of others who feel ignored and excluded share her narrative.
Political Interference and Public Disillusionment
Housing developments have been accused of being utilised as a political tool by successive governments. Critics contend that the ruling party's supporters are frequently given preference when it comes to eligibility requirements, making regular people the victims of political scheming.
President Muizzu, who previously served as Housing Minister, has faced scrutiny over his defense of past housing lists. Now, his administration faces the challenge of rectifying what many perceive as the injustices of previous allocations.
Speaking at a recent event marking his first year in office, President Muizzu emphasized the need for transparency, stating that his government is thoroughly reviewing the lists to ensure fairness. "We are addressing discrepancies and ensuring that flats are allocated to those who truly deserve them," he assured the public.
The Human Impact of Housing Policies
The impact of these delays and revisions is deeply personal. For many Maldivians, owning a home is more than a financial asset—it represents stability, security, and a future for their families. The ongoing uncertainty has left many feeling betrayed and abandoned by the system.
"Every time we see these flats, our hopes rise, only to be dashed by political games," lamented one resident awaiting allocation. The sentiment underscores the emotional toll that housing uncertainty takes on individuals and families.
The Path Forward: Ensuring Fairness and Transparency
As the Muizzu administration works to finalize the housing lists, citizens are calling for a more transparent and equitable process. Housing is a fundamental right, not a political bargaining chip. Ensuring that this right is protected and upheld is crucial for restoring public trust and alleviating the housing crisis in the Maldives.
Whether the current administration can end the cycle of uncertainty and provide long-term stability to the housing industry will depend on the government's ability to fulfill its commitments. Thousands of Maldivians are still waiting for justice to be served in the future.
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