The Pettiest Drama in the Tech World Is Taking Place at... WordPress?

Matt Mullenweg, co-founder and CEO of Automattic, has engaged in a public dispute with WP Engine, a major client that utilizes WordPress' open-source code for its hosting services. The conflict began when Mullenweg criticized WP Engine during WordCamp U.S., accusing it of exploiting WordPress without adequately contributing to the ecosystem. He specifically targeted Silver Lake, the private equity firm that owns WP Engine, suggesting it prioritizes profit over open-source values. This led to a series of aggressive statements from Mullenweg, including a call for the WordPress community to withdraw support from WP Engine. In response, WP Engine sent a cease-and-desist letter, alleging that Mullenweg threatened to launch a public campaign against them unless they paid a significant sum to Automattic. The situation escalated with Mullenweg announcing WP Engine's ban from the WordPress nonprofit network, which was later temporarily lifted after backlash from users. The dispute has raised concerns about Mullenweg's dual role in both the commercial and nonprofit aspects of WordPress, leading to accusations of conflicts of interest. WP Engine has since filed a lawsuit against Mullenweg and Automattic, claiming extortion and other serious allegations, while Automattic has dismissed the lawsuit as meritless.

- Matt Mullenweg publicly criticized WP Engine for not supporting the WordPress ecosystem adequately.

- WP Engine responded with a cease-and-desist letter, alleging threats from Mullenweg.

- The conflict has raised concerns about Mullenweg's dual role in WordPress' commercial and nonprofit sectors.

- WP Engine has filed a lawsuit against Mullenweg and Automattic, claiming extortion and defamation.

- The situation highlights tensions between open-source ideals and corporate interests in the tech industry.