President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has outlined the Government’s plans to introduce a series of constructive revisions to national housing scheme criteria. He made the remarks while addressing the residents of Henveyru this evening.
During the meeting held at Kalaafaanu School, residents raised concerns about the acute housing shortage. In response, the President announced that the Government would amend the eligibility criteria for housing schemes, enabling those who had applied for one-room apartments out of necessity to apply for three-room units under the revised criteria. He also indicated that alternative solutions would be explored to address the current requirement of five years’ residency in Malé for eligibility.
Reflecting on past practices of land and flat allocation by successive governments, the President reaffirmed his Administration’s determination to honour commitments made to citizens who have faced injustice.
Turning to urban infrastructure, the President highlighted challenges faced on the streets of Malé and confirmed that the construction of four parking facilities in Malé, Vilimalé, and Hulhumalé has been included under the Indian Government’s line of credit. He further announced plans to redevelop markets in Malé, including the development of a modern mixed-use complex comprising a fish market, a vegetable market, and a dedicated office building for the fisheries sector at the existing fish market site.
Responding to a question on increasing the utilisation of the Pension Fund, the President stated that the Government intends to submit an amendment to the Pension Act to the People’s Majlis at its next session, enabling the fund to be utilised for additional purposes under defined circumstances.
The President also addressed broader concerns raised during the meeting. He emphasised that significant efforts are underway to strengthen judicial independence and assured the public that this independence would be evident. Highlighting that key national decisions are taken in consultation with citizens and their representatives, he affirmed that this would be substantiated if put to vote.
On social protection, the President pledged to streamline procedures at the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) and reiterated the Government’s commitment to resolving challenges faced by children and persons with disabilities. He stressed the importance of ensuring the inclusion of marginalised groups within society. He added that the Pay Harmonisation Issue remains unresolved, noting that such matters continue to fall under the remit of the Pay Commission.
President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed his commitment to addressing correspondence directed to him, pledging to expedite replies and clear the existing backlog. He added that opportunities would be made available for in-person meetings with the President, while members of the public would continue to have the option of presenting their concerns directly to Ministers at the President’s Office.
The President concluded by assuring that the Administration will take the necessary measures following due consideration of public concerns.
