Usfasgandu can be leased as we wish, for as long as we want: City Council

City Council has said that they have the authority to use, release or lease Usfasgandu as they wish, as long as it does not contradict with the constitution and laws. Usfasgandu is the empty space behind Dharubaaruge.

A statement released by Deputy Mayor of City Council Ahmed Shamah Rasheed said that earlier, it was Male’ Municipality which leased empty spaces and stadiums in Male’ to the public, but with the creation of City Council, this responsibility as well as the employees in charge of these duties were transferred to City Council.

According to the statement, Article 41 (g) of Decentralisation Act allows the Council to obtain empty spaces, harbours and property for economic and social purposes; and Usfasgandu, located behind Dharubaaruge, was handed over to the City Council by the former government subsequent to some discussions.

The statement also says that the agreement to hand over Usfasgandu to City Council last September states that the area should be developed for leisure activities, and that the area can be leased for as long a period as allowed by the laws.

Jumhooree Party and Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) had also requested for empty spaces for longer than one year, but their requests were denied. However Usfasgandu has been leased for three months to Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

Housing Ministry released a statement today, informing City Council that Usfasgandu is currently used by the general public to relax during their free time. They advised City council against using it for any other purpose.

Housing Ministry expressed concern that Male’ City Council does not respect needs of the general public, and informed them that such empty spaces handed over to City Council by the Ministry can be utilised for purposes that have been predefined, which cater to the needs of the general public.