The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts has reopened applications for membership to the Maldives Media Council, following the withdrawal of candidates in an ongoing by-election process.

Three seats on the Council are currently vacant, including one ordinary member and two members representing the media. The Ministry confirmed that two of the four candidates who had initially contested for these posts have formally withdrawn their candidacy. As a result, the opportunity to nominate individuals for the two media-representative positions has been reopened.

Interested applicants are required to complete the application form available on the Ministry's website, along with all supporting documents. The deadline for submission is 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

The Maldives Media Council is an independent 15-member body elected by media professionals. It is mandated to protect and promote press freedom within the framework of Maldivian law, whilst also upholding ethical standards and accountability in journalism.