While MDP MP Ibrahim was actively working on a proposal to address shortage of ADHD medication, Muizzu abruptly issues decree to resolve the issue
The President has issued a decree removing Methylphenidate, a medication used to treat ADHD, from the list of prohibited substances under the Narcotics Act to resolve ongoing supply shortages in the Maldives. Following this decision, the drug has been officially reclassified for medical use, addressing the significant challenges faced by families in accessing treatment for children with ADHD. This regulatory amendment follows a recent motion by an opposition lawmaker to summon relevant authorities to Parliament to address the medication's scarcity.
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While Member of Parliament for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim of the MDP, was actively pursuing a resolution in Parliament regarding the shortage of ADHD medication, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has abruptly intervened by issuing a decree to address the issue.
Ibrahim has requested that the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Limited and the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) be summoned to Parliament, amid an escalating shortage of medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
In a letter addressed to the Speaker of Parliament, concerns were raised regarding one of the most significant challenges in treating children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the Maldives: the lack of easy access to Methylphenidate, which is considered the primary and most essential treatment for the condition. To clarify the root causes of this shortage, a request was made for the relevant parliamentary committee to summon officials from the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Limited (STO) and the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA). The request also called for an inquiry into the 2023 Essential Medicines List (EML) review process, seeking the presence of the core committee members and technical experts involved in that work to facilitate a resolution to the issue.
However, in a sudden move, President Muizzu has issued a decree to amend the Drugs Act (Law No. 17/2011) to facilitate access to Methylphenidate, a primary first-line medication used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The President's Office stated that the President’s decision follows deliberations within the Cabinet regarding a recommendation from the National Drug Control Council. This led to a formal request for parliamentary approval under Section 3-4 (c) of the Drugs Act. Consequently, during the 17th sitting of the first session of 2026, held on May 11, 2026, the People’s Majlis voted to approve the removal of Methylphenidate from the list of prohibited substances under Item 89 of Schedule 1 of the Act, reclassifying it as a controlled substance authorized for medicinal use.
While the President has reached this decision, MP Ibrahim had already submitted the matter on the 23rd of last month. However, the People’s National Congress (PNC) supermajority in Parliament, which remains under President Muizzu’s full control, had previously refused to cooperate on the issue.
In accordance with Section 4-3 (b) of Act No. 17/2011 (Drug Act), a Presidential Decree has been published in the Government Gazette and has officially come into effect. With this amendment, a legal framework is now established to facilitate the availability of Methylphenidate in the Maldives, a medication used in the treatment of individuals with ADHD.
