President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that any decision to relocate the population of Rakeedhoo to another island will only move forward if 80 per cent of the island’s residents agree.
Speaking at a community meeting during his tour of inhabited islands across four atolls, the President said the Government would ensure that both residents living on the island and those registered elsewhere have the opportunity to share their views.
“The views of the people on migration have become very clear,” the President said. “Not only the people on the island, we will also seek the opinion of those living outside the island. We need not only a majority of 50 per cent, we need 80 per cent support for migration.”
Community Preferences and Assurances
Many residents have expressed interest in relocating to a developing island closer to Malé, such as Rasmalé or Gulhifalhu. They said they were not seeking an immediate move, but preferred to relocate once proper housing and essential services are available.
President Muizzu assured the community that if migration proceeds, the Government will provide housing and compensation, ensuring resettlement takes place in an island with adequate facilities and infrastructure.
Rakeedhoo currently has around 60 residents, though the island’s registered population is about 360. The majority of current inhabitants are senior citizens, with no school-age children living on the island.
Tourism and Economic Activity
The President also reassured residents that Rakeedhoo’s ongoing local tourism ventures would not be disrupted by migration plans. The island currently hosts two guesthouses, with additional plots allocated for future developments.
“We will look at ways to continue these businesses. Of course, the assurance is that these businesses will not be harmed and will not have to stop,” the President said.
Other Community Priorities
Residents also raised concerns about reclaiming a nearby lagoon for settlement and called for improved transportation links. In response, the President announced that reliable ferry services would be established through the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) network before March next year.
He noted that, unlike on other islands, a dedicated meeting was organised in Rakeedhoo specifically to gather residents’ views on a wide range of community issues.
