Tuesday
18th Aug 2026
Dhivehi Edition
Photo: Majilis
The People’s Majlis has passed amendments to the Utility Regulatory Authority (URA) Act aimed at strengthening the authority’s administrative functions by increasing the number of members on its governing board.
The bill, submitted by Vilufushi constituency MP Hassan Waheed on behalf of the government, was approved with 61 votes in favour and six against.
The bill was reviewed by the Environment and Climate Change Committee, which recommended that it be passed with 11 amendments proposed by the government.
Under the amendments, the URA board will be expanded from its current five members to seven members, including the Chief Executive. All members other than the Chief Executive will be required to have relevant professional qualifications and experience in fields specified under the law.
The amendments also revise the provision governing the terms of board members. Members will serve five-year terms, while provisions will allow members, except those removed by the board, to serve more than one term.
The amended law further states that the Chief Executive will not have voting rights when decisions are made at board meetings.
Following ratification of the amendments by the President of the Maldives, the additional members required under the expanded board structure must be appointed within 30 days.
The Utility Regulatory Authority is responsible for regulating utility services in the Maldives, including sectors covered under its mandate such as electricity, water and sewerage, waste management and petroleum.