Solih calls to reinstate initial rent for FDC flats

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (Ibu) has urged the government to reinstate the original rent rates for flats under the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) housing scheme, calling the recent increases unfair to low-income families.

According to Solih's office, rents were initially set at MVR 7,000 for three bedroom units and MVR 5,000 for two-bedroom units, with a MVR 1,000 maintenance fee and a three-month grace period after handover.

Last week, the government began signing agreements with 4,000 recipients under revised terms, including MVR 9,500 rent for three-bedroom flats with a MVR 1,500 maintenance fee and a MVR 25,000 deposit; MVR 7,000 rent for two-bedroom units with a MVR 1,000 fee and a MVR 15,000 deposit.

Solih criticized the move as a burden on the poor and said such changes erode public trust.

Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib defended the revisions, citing sustainability concerns and an annual subsidy requirement of over MVR 100 million.