I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the Special Economic Zone Act of 2025. While the Act's stated intent may be to promote investment and economic growth, its actual consequences threaten to undermine workers’ rights, environmental protections, and democratic accountability.

The Act grants sweeping powers to private investors and corporations within designated zones, often at the expense of local communities. These zones risk becoming deregulated enclaves where labour standards are weakened, environmental regulations are suspended, and public oversight is diminished. History has shown that such zones often benefit a few powerful actors while displacing vulnerable populations, degrading ecosystems, and fostering corruption.

Moreover, the Act could create a dangerous precedent by allowing laws and rights applicable in the rest of the country to be selectively suspended or bypassed. This two-tiered legal system undermines the principle of equal protection and opens the door to exploitative practices under the guise of economic development.

Economic growth should not come at the cost of fairness, justice, and sustainability. I urge legislators to reject the Special Economic Zone Act of 2025 and pursue inclusive economic strategies that respect labour rights, environmental and biodiversity safeguards, Indigenous Consultation and democratic values.