EPA change a ‘step backward’ for environmental protection: MDP Chairperson Fayyaz
Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has strongly criticised the government’s decision to abolish the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and transfer its responsibilities to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, calling it “a major step backward” for environmental protection.
In a post on social media platform X, Fayyaz said that while there is always room to review and improve regulatory processes, removing the independence of the EPA’s work is “deeply concerning.” He argued that the decision fits into “an ongoing pattern” by the government to dismantle checks and balances and consolidate power with the president.
The move by the gov to abolish rhe EPA and transfer its responsibilities to the Ministry of Tourism is a major step backward in our efforts to protect the environment and maintain a balance between development and conservation. While there is always room to review and improve regulatory processes, removing the independence of the work of EPA is deeply concerning. Unfortunately, this move aligns with the gov's ongoing pattern of systematically dismantling checks and balances and consolidating power with the president.
He wrote
Fayyaz also warned that the change could damage investor confidence, noting that abrupt and unreasonable disruptions to regulatory systems risk accelerating the decline of the Maldives’ already troubled economy.
Beyond the obvious environmental risks, such abrupt and unreasonable disruptions to regulations and established systems undermine investor confidence leading to an acceleration of the decline of an already troubled economy.
He added
His remarks follow President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to rename the EPA as the Environmental Regulatory Authority, as formalised under Presidential Directive No. 14/2025.
Under the directive, the institution will now operate directly under the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, rather than being overseen by a governing board.
According to the government, the restructuring aims to more accurately reflect the institution’s responsibilities and strengthen its capacity to regulate the environment.
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