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MDP MP Hussain Ziyad

MALÉ, Maldives: MDP parliamentary group Deputy Leader and Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad was removed from Wednesday’s Parliament sitting after protesting the government’s decision to transfer waste damaged in the recent Thilafushi fire to the waste transfer station under construction in HDh. Kunburudhoo.

The dispute stems from the massive fire that broke out at the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) site in Thilafushi on July 19. Although firefighters brought the blaze under control the following day, WAMCO later announced plans to transport the burnt waste to Kunburudhoo.

Earlier in the sitting, Parliament rejected an emergency motion submitted by Ziyad, who raised concerns over the environmental and public health risks of moving the fire-damaged waste to the northern atoll. The motion was voted down by 27 votes to seven.

Despite the rejection, Ziyad raised the issue again during debate on an amendment to the Utility Regulatory Authority Act, urging the government to reconsider the decision.

He warned that transporting the waste during the southwest monsoon could affect nearby islands, including Kulhudhuffushi, Nolhivaram, Nolhivaranfaru, Hanimaadhoo and Hirimaradhoo.

Ziyad argued that the waste transfer facility in Kunburudhoo is still under construction and lacks a proper system to manage leachate, raising concerns that toxic materials could contaminate surrounding soil and groundwater.

He also expressed disappointment that MPs representing constituencies in Haa Dhaalu Atoll voted against the motion, saying he would continue efforts to stop the transfer.

Ejected from Sitting

After continuing his protest, Ziyad left his seat and stood in front of the presiding desk inside the chamber.

Deputy Speaker Ahmed Saleem repeatedly called for order before naming the MP and ordering him to leave the chamber.