BKMU Gather Outside Fisheries Ministry Ahead of Expected Meeting With Minister

A larger group of fishermen from the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) has gathered outside the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, ahead of a meeting with Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam over their long-standing demands.

Some fishermen talking to MV+ yesterday said that the ministry had informed them that a meeting would take place, prompting many who had been protesting at sea and around Malé to assemble outside the ministry building. Protesters described the gathering as an attempt to directly engage with decision-makers after days of demonstrations without a public response from the government. The Ministry has yet to publicly announce the meeting. 

The fishermen have been protesting since Fishermen’s Day calling for the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) to begin purchasing yellowfin tuna, for the government to set a minimum price between MVR 80 and MVR 100 per kilogram, and for fuel to be supplied at base rates alongside reliable access to ice.

Despite expectations of talks, fishermen reiterated that they would not scale back their protest unless concrete commitments are made. They also renewed calls for the release of expatriate workers arrested during what they described as a peaceful protest at sea earlier this week.