The Elections Commission of Maldives (EC) has officially opened applications for positions on the newly formed Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission, despite continued opposition from journalists and media organizations regarding the law that established it.

The commission, created under the recently ratified Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Act, will oversee and regulate the media sector.

Applications are open for four positions: two representing broadcasters and two representing media outlets. The deadline for submissions is 2pm on October 4.

Prospective candidates must submit their completed forms and required documents to the Elections Commission office, located on the fifth floor of the Port Complex on Hilaalee Magu. The commission will be accepting applications daily (except Fridays) between 9am and 2pm. On Fridays, submissions will be accepted from 3pm to 5pm. All communication regarding the application process will be handled via email.

The election for commission membership is scheduled for October 11, from 9am to 4pm.

Only registered media outlets are eligible to vote, with each outlet entitled to one vote. Ballot boxes will be placed only in the capital, Malé City, limiting in-person voting access for media organizations based in the atolls. Counting will begin 30 minutes after polls close, with final results to be announced shortly thereafter.

Eligibility criteria for commission candidates are strict. Applicants must be Maldivian citizens aged 30 or above, with either a relevant academic qualification or a minimum of five years of experience in the media sector. Individuals currently working as editors or responsible persons in media outlets are barred from running, as are those holding political posts, members of political parties, and anyone with convictions related to Hadd offenses, drug trafficking, sexual abuse, embezzlement, or bribery. Ownership of shares in media or communication businesses also disqualifies a candidate.

The launch of the application process comes amid significant backlash from the local media community. Journalists have repeatedly protested against the legislation underpinning the commission, citing concerns over press freedom, political influence, and the lack of independence in the regulatory framework. Despite these concerns, authorities continue to push ahead with implementation.

Critics argue that the new commission may serve more as a tool for state control rather than a platform for safeguarding ethical journalism and media independence in the Maldives.