Gov’t seeks leader for ERA, formed after EPA powers transferred to minister

The government has officially announced a vacancy for the top position at the newly formed Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA), which was established following the rebranding and restructuring of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

According to a notice published by the Civil Service Commission, applications are now open for the role of Chief Administrator of ERA. The monthly salary for the post, including allowances, is set at MVR 35,000.

ERA was formed after President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu introduced sweeping changes to the EPA, transferring all of the agency’s powers directly under the Minister of Tourism and Environment. Previously, EPA operated as an autonomous body under a governing board. It was established by a presidential decree during former President Mohamed Nasheed’s administration under the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

The restructuring has sparked criticism from various quarters, with concerns raised over the erosion of institutional independence. Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih described the move as part of the current administration’s broader attempt to weaken oversight bodies. He pointed to recent amendments to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations, which now allow EIAs to proceed without EPA’s input, as evidence that the agency's authority has been stripped.

MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail also weighed in on the issue via social media platform ‘X’, stating that removing EPA’s independence was deeply concerning. He accused the administration of centralizing power and missing an opportunity to enhance environmental regulation.

The President’s Office has defended the decision, stating that the name change and administrative restructuring were aimed at aligning the agency’s identity more closely with its core mandate: environmental regulation. It also said the changes would improve the efficiency and speed of the agency’s operations.