In Unprecedented Move, WordPress.org Under Matt Mullenweg Takes Over Advanced Custom Fields Plugin

Oct 12, 2024, 08:54 PM

WordPress.org has unilaterally taken over control of the Advanced Custom Fields plugin, one of the most popular plugins developed by WP Engine, without the consent of its creators—a move unprecedented in the 21-year history of WordPress. This action, which includes forking the plugin to remove commercial upsells, has sparked a conflict between WordPress.org, led by Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg, and WP Engine. Critics argue that Automattic's ability to take over any plugin at will undermines the principles of open-source software and could harm everyday users of WordPress. The dispute has led to debates within the community about whether Mullenweg is defending or sabotaging WordPress.