Attorney General's Office (AG Office) has requested Maldives Police Service to probe into former Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Dr. Mohamed Muizzu over allegations that his actions forced the government to pay settlement to Noomadi Resorts and Residences Private Limited.
A statement publicised by AG Office explained although the former housing minister defended the stance of the former administration on the case during his tenure as minister, he had testified in favour of Noomadi at the arbitration process. The statement further claimed Muizzu was involved in making decisions on the case without discussing government's actions and defense options. It further said Muizzu has a responsibility to the case until he left his position at office, adding his stance on the issue changed once he left his position as housing minister on November 17, last year as he testified against the state at the arbitration on June 14, this year.
Muizzu first stated the contract with Noomadi was terminated upon request from former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom although he later changed his statement. AG asked to investigate him over his actions as the minister, and over the statement he gave at the arbitration to identify if he provided false information.
Noomadi was contracted to develop 1,100 housing units on multiple islands during the administration of former President Mohamed Nasheed. However, the contract was later terminated over claims of contract violations.
Noomadi later filed two arbitration cases at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, seeking USD 155 million in compensation. After settlement discussions outside the courtroom, the administration has agreed to pay Noomadi USD 55 million to compensate for its losses.
Muizzu was also summoned to parliamentary committee probing into the matter. The committee has accused him of providing false information to the committee.