Former State Minister of Housing in the MDP government, Akram Kamaludeen, has firmly stated that no land documents related to the Binveriya and Gedhoruveriya schemes were issued outside the established rules. This assertion follows allegations involving Fazeel Rasheed, Deputy Managing Director of MWSC, who reportedly submitted a land document to HDC and constructed a boundary wall on the property, despite not qualifying for land under the Binveriya scheme. The police are currently investigating this situation as a potential forgery case.
During the inquiry, Fazeel claimed that he received the document from the previous government and had discussions with Akram Kamaludeen regarding this matter. However, Akram has refuted these claims, asserting that no meeting took place between them, which would have been documented if it had occurred. He emphasized his accountability for all actions taken during his tenure in government and reiterated that no documents were issued contrary to regulations.
In a press conference by MDP, Akram reinforced that all documentation adhered strictly to procedural rules, making unauthorized issuance impossible. Meanwhile, both the Anti-Corruption Commission and police have launched investigations into the Binveriya and Gedhoruveri schemes. As part of these investigations, Akram’s passport has been temporarily withheld.
The controversy arose when Fazeel, previously deemed ineligible for land in Hulhumale due to not meeting criteria, applied to HDC for a permit to construct a boundary wall using a registry that allegedly showed land allocation. This application was submitted on June 30, 2024. In accordance with HDC procedures, the housing ministry was consulted for verification of this land registry after another individual also sought permission for similar construction.
The second applicant was Abdul Majeed Mahir, who is registered in Ha. Dhidhdhoo despite the Binveriya scheme targeting individuals from Male’. In a response dated August 15 from the Housing Ministry to HDC’s inquiry, it was clarified that neither applicant appeared on the Binveriya list nor had ownership of these plots been granted to anyone.
Currently, police are investigating allegations of illegal land allocations and document forgery related to these cases.
