Over on the Ubuntu Discourse server, Martin Wimpress had this to say: "As another development cycle passes, I find myself lacking the time I once had to work on Ubuntu MATE. And, to be frank, I don’t have the passion for the project that I once had. When I have time to tinker, my interests are elsewhere."

To that end, Wimpress is now searching for someone to take the lead on Ubuntu MATE. 

Wimpress also stated: "If you are an Ubuntu contributor with experience maintaining packages in the Ubuntu archive and are interested in working on Ubuntu MATE, let me know. I’ve posted a similar message in the Ubuntu Flavours channel on Matrix."

That's right: If you're a developer looking to jump on board to maintain a popular Ubuntu spin, now's your chance.

When pressed whether this is the end of MATE, Wimpress simply said, "No, it isn't."

There is also a thread on the same Discourse server with the title "Thank you, Martin Wimpress," where users are piling on the kindness for the developer.

According to OMG Ubuntu, MATE isn't the only distribution in need of developers, as Lubuntu has switched to maintenance mode and Ubuntu Unity's creator has stepped back. 

Martin is already on the search for new developers, and if you're interested in contributing to Ubuntu MATE, reach out to Mr. Wimpress and let him know.