An audio recording has been leaked in which Attorney General Ahmed Usham says liquor licences could be granted to certain hotels developed under the Ras Male’ project. It surfaced even though President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had earlier assured the public that alcohol sales would not be permitted in Ras Male’.
In the leaked audio, AG Usham says Ras Male’ is being developed as a separate, standalone island.
He also says there have been discussions about selling alcohol at commercial establishments and hotels within a designated area.
He adds that these places are on separate islands, like Maldivian resorts, so the general public will not be able to get to them. He says nothing that goes against Maldivian law will be allowed there.
According to reports, Usham made these remarks at a meeting with religious scholars. The meeting was about concerns over reports that the Ras Male’ project is being permanently handed over to Eagle Hills. The audio has not been officially verified, but many people on social media say the voice is Usham’s.
The audio was leaked even though President Muizzu has repeatedly assured the public that his government will not allow alcohol or pork to be sold anywhere in the Ras Male’ project, and that such activities don’t fit with government policy.
