Gov’t to Settle Outstanding Payments to Fishermen by Next Month

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has revealed that the government is set to address outstanding payments owed to fishermen by next month. 

In a statement released via X platform, Minister Shiyam confirmed that the government will fulfil its financial obligations by disbursing the outstanding amount of MVR 280 million by March 5, in addition to settling the inherited sum of MVR 250 million.

Fishermen from Gaafu Alif Atoll Kooddoo convened today to voice their grievances against the government for the delayed settlement of payments owed to them. 

Protesters expressed dismay over the prolonged delay in receiving payments, citing a three-month lapse since the last remittance. The sentiment extended to the perceived inaction on the part of the authorities in addressing their concerns adequately.

Intent on pressing for resolution, demonstrators affirmed their commitment to sustaining the protest until a mutually agreeable solution is reached, and outstanding dues are settled.

In a bid to underscore their demands, protestors impeded the operations of 15 fishing vessels destined for the island’s fish processing facility, thereby obstructing the weighing and sale of fish to the company.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has previously reassured the fishing community of their impending compensation, even suggesting the possibility of MIFCO securing a loan to expedite payments.

Muizzu is slated to visit Kooddoo as the final leg of his current tour of the southern atolls, though it remains to be seen whether the visit will address the concerns raised by the protesting fishermen.