Letter to the EC opposing Oracle’s acquisition of MySQL

“Oracle seeks to acquire MySQL to prevent further erosion of its
share of the market for database software licenses and services,
and to protect the high prices now charged for its proprietary
database software licenses and services.

“If Oracle is allowed to acquire MySQL, it will predictably
limit the development of the functionality and performance of the
MySQL software platform, leading to profound harm to those who use
MySQL software to power applications.”

Monty Widenius, one of the original MySQL developers, also

opposes the deal:

“Michael ‘Monty’ Widenius, the creator of open source database
MySQL and founder of the namesake company later acquired by Sun,
today suggested Oracle should resolve antitrust concerns over its
US$7.4 billion acquisition of Sun by committing to sell MySQL to a
suitable third party. The proposed takeover has not yet been
consummated because it is being investigated in depth by the
European Commission as well as competition authorities in several
other jurisdictions.”

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