The Maldives Independent, known as Minivan News prior to 2015, was forced to suspend operations on January 31, 2020 due to financial issues, 15 years after it was established amid a wave of Maldivian democratization. The English-language online daily served as an important independent voice in Maldives, working free from political affiliations or funding seen to compromise editorial independence.

In its revived form, the outlet is owned and operated by a team of its former Maldivian journalists, with a team of local journalists working alongside an advisory board of former editors, media stakeholders, and business professionals. The outlet has announced plans to start a monthly membership programme, while also relying on funding from advertising and international assistance, in line with editorial guidelines and concerns around independence.

Journalists in Maldives continue to face assault, harassment, and abuse, with news outlets suffering threats. In November 2024, an eventually withdrawn bill sought to impose a new media commission controlled by government appointees, abolishing the Maldives Media Council and the Broadcasting Commission and with it independent media regulation.

Authorities have also failed to hold any suspects in the 2014 killing of Minivan News journalist Ahmed Rilwan or 2017 assassination of outlet contributor Yameen Rasheed to account, with the incumbent President Muizzu disbanding the Presidential Commission on Deaths and Disappearances (DDCOM) which promised to deliver justice to the families of slain journalists and activities, in 2024.

MJA Secretary General Naaif Ahmed said: “The return of Maldives Independent marks a crucial moment for press freedom and access to diverse perspectives in Maldives. After a challenging hiatus, its relaunch signifies a renewed commitment to journalistic integrity. Maldives Independent has historically played a vital role in bringing democracy to the Maldives, championing independent journalism, and working tirelessly for a free press and freedom of expression. The Maldives Journalists Association warmly welcomes this vital voice back into the media landscape, and we look forward to its contribution to a more informed and transparent society.”

The IFJ said: “The IFJ congratulates the Maldives Independent on resuming its important work, and watches with great anticipation the important role it will play in the Maldives’ media sphere. With global challenges to media assistance funding, crowd-funding and alternative funding models are vital in upholding an industry built on editorial independence and quality journalism.”