Former Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi Criticized for Comments on Male' Housing Crisis

Former Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi has come under public scrutiny following a series of tweets expressing frustration over the lack of housing in Male', despite owning several properties across the Maldives and abroad. Mariya, who owns luxurious homes in the atolls and in London, voiced her concerns about housing shortages in an article published by 'Adhadhu Newspaper' regarding the Rasmale' project. She stated that the delay in housing projects severely impacts residents like her.

However, Mariya's remarks have sparked backlash on social media, with many accusing her of being disconnected from the struggles of ordinary Maldivians. Critics pointed out that her significant wealth and property ownership make her comments on housing needs inappropriate, especially in light of widespread concerns about housing availability in Male'.

Some have highlighted Mariya’s ownership of a £1.53 million mansion in London’s exclusive neighborhoods, registered under her son Affan Abdul Sattar’s name, suggesting it would be more fitting for her to move there rather than speak on Male' housing. Additionally, the public cited her six-plot guesthouse in L. Gan, a property spanning 24,000 square feet.

Her comments also reignited discussions about her ex-husband Abdul Sattar (Sato), who was accused of benefiting from the FPID fraud, a major scandal involving the embezzlement of $380 million in state funds during their marriage.

Amid these criticisms, many pointed out that Mariya, who belongs to the Maldives Democratic Party (MDP), had no right to criticize the current government for housing delays, as MDP held power for five years with its own unfulfilled promises to the public.