Daily Maverick shuts down: 'Without journalism our democracy will break down'

On Monday (15 April 2024), Daily Maverick suspended its operations to draw attention to the journalism crisis and its impact on South Africa.

The media company emphasised the necessity of a democratic system that serves all citizens, not just a privileged few, for economic growth and the delivery of essential services.

To do that we need more journalists reporting on and investigating our critical institutions and leaders, said the online publication on social media.

Daily Maverick, which began with only five individuals and now employs 100, has been instrumental in reporting pivotal stories in South Africa's democracy, including the Marikana massacre, Gupta Leaks, VBS scandal, and the PPE scandal.

The publication's investigative prowess has exposed abuses of power and held individuals accountable.

Today, we are urged to contemplate the absence of such vital journalistic voices in South Africa.

Charalambous asserts that they're currently in a state of crisis, highlighting that the economic landscape no longer accommodates or maintains a newsroom of their magnitude.

He stresses that addressing our faltering economy and fractured society necessitates the sustainable existence of public interest journalism in the long run.

Daily Maverick implores businesses and individuals to intervene and contribute towards safeguarding this essential instrument, which serves to inform, uncover, and unify our society.

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