Bassam Adeel Jaleel Denies Ownership of Controversial Hulhumale’ Penthouse Amid Corruption Allegations

Former President of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), Bassam Adeel Jaleel, has firmly denied claims that he owned two luxury penthouses in Hulhumale’ allegedly purchased with association funds.

The allegation surfaced during legal proceedings at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), where Bassam is contesting his suspension from FIFA over corruption charges. The case has drawn significant attention, not only for its implications in global football governance but also for the serious financial misconduct alleged on home soil.

FIFA Cites Real Estate Ownership in Defense

As part of their defense, FIFA’s legal team presented multiple accusations, including the claim that Bassam had acquired the Hulhumale’ penthouses using misappropriated FAM funds. According to documents submitted to the court, his name was allegedly included on a list of individuals who had defaulted on maintenance fees for the penthouses and another apartment located in the Amin Avenue complex.

However, the list cited a "Bassam Ali," which does not match Bassam’s full legal name. This discrepancy introduced reasonable doubt, and the CAS panel ultimately found that the evidence was insufficient to definitively tie the properties to Bassam.

Bassam Reiterates Denial of Property Ownership

In his public response, Bassam denied holding any real estate under his name and stated unequivocally that he is not the owner of the penthouses in question. “I do not own, nor have I owned, any such properties,” he said, seeking to distance himself from the controversy.

Yet, this denial contrasts with earlier developments in Maldivian courts. A local court had previously ordered Bassam to hand over the penthouse to police custody, asserting it was obtained through misuse of FAM funds. The property, a combination of two high-end penthouse units, was surrendered in October last year following the ruling.

Legal Battle Continues Despite Suspension Ending

Although Bassam’s suspension from FIFA officially ended in March, the legal shadow remains. In February, CAS sided with FIFA, affirming that the organization acted within its rights in suspending him. Meanwhile, Bassam attempted to challenge a local Criminal Court order in the High Court, but his appeal was not accepted.

Multiple corruption-related cases involving Bassam are still active in the Maldivian court system, suggesting the legal saga is far from over.