Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim has expressed concern over significant delays to the “Asseyri Tourism” project in Addu City, citing a lack of cooperation from the local council as the primary obstacle to the initiative’s progress.

Speaking to MMTV during a campaign event in the West Maafannu constituency, Minister Thoriq stated that the Government is facing systemic challenges in advancing development projects in regions where local councils are held by the opposition. He specifically identified the Addu City Council’s failure to allocate required land as the reason for the current stalemate, despite the Government having already identified and arranged the necessary plots.

Minister Thoriq stated that the Ministry of Tourism has sent multiple formal requests to the council seeking the release of the required land, yet weeks have passed without a response or approval. The Minister described the delay as a deliberate attempt by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to obstruct a project intended to benefit the public, and alleged that the opposition is attempting to mislead the public ahead of the upcoming Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections.

The Asseyri Tourism project, a cornerstone of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s regional development strategy, aims to transform the southern atoll’s economy by adding 6,000 tourist beds. The master plan extends beyond traditional hospitality to include a cultural village, a dedicated wellness zone, and the promotion of tourism within environmentally protected areas. Additionally, the project proposes the establishment of a specialised hospitality school in Addu to provide vocational training for local youth.