The government has appointed Mohamed Mauroof Jameel as the new Managing Director of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). The announcement, made on Sunday, follows the resignation of Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed, who stepped down amid ongoing investigations into allegations of corruption.
Fazul’s resignation on Saturday came after scrutiny regarding the allocation of land and flats in Hulhumalé. Authorities have seized his passport as part of the investigation, which involves claims of irregularities in the Binveriya housing project. The controversy includes allegations of land in Phase 2 of Hulhumalé being acquired through forged documents.
In response to the allegations, HDC issued a statement emphasising that all residential land in Phase 2 was sold through a regulated bidding process, adhering to established guidelines. The inquiry has intensified calls for transparency and accountability in the management of public housing projects.
Mauroof Jameel brings extensive experience in housing and infrastructure to his new role. Before the formation of HDC, he served as the Director General of the Hulhumalé Development Unit. He has also held senior positions within HDC and the Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC).
In addition, Mauroof served as the Minister of Construction and Public Infrastructure, where he oversaw key initiatives in the sector. His contributions to architectural heritage initiatives highlight his expertise in sustainable development and infrastructure planning.
The appointment of Mauroof Jameel is seen as a step towards stabilising HDC amidst the fallout from the Fazul Rasheed scandal. With his extensive background in housing development and public infrastructure, Mauroof is expected to lead the corporation in rebuilding trust and ensuring compliance with housing regulations.
HDC continues to play a crucial role in managing Hulhumalé’s development, and the new leadership is tasked with addressing public concerns while advancing housing and infrastructure projects in alignment with national priorities.