The Maldivian Government has announced that, following a comprehensive verification process, only 1,820 out of the 4,000 flats allocated under the previous administration’s Gedhoruveriya housing scheme in Hulhumalé meet the required eligibility criteria.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, provided an overview of the verification process. The Minister stated that out of 4,939 applications reviewed, 55 per cent were found ineligible. Among the remaining 45 per cent, only 1,820 applicants met all necessary requirements. 

The Government is expediting the handover process to ensure that flats are allocated to eligible recipients as soon as possible. The Minister further explained that, once investigations by state agencies are finalised, agreements will be signed, and the handover process will be completed by the following month.

He also confirmed that several residential blocks have already been completed, with handovers expected to commence in March. These units will be transferred to the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) for final processing. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to connect essential infrastructure, including water supply, to these housing developments.

Prior to the transition of power, the previous administration had announced a finalised list of flat recipients and signed agreements with several allottees. However, an investigation conducted by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) revealed that 59.6 per cent of applications deemed eligible under the scheme did not meet the required criteria.

In response, the current Government initiated a comprehensive re-evaluation, introducing stricter eligibility criteria, including a requirement for proof of residency in Malé City for a minimum of 15 years. As a result of this reassessment, a number of applicants were removed from the list due to insufficient documentation. The Ministry has assured that the finalised list of eligible recipients will be officially gazetted, allowing individuals who believe errors have been made in the selection process to file complaints within a designated one-month period.