PNC MPs Blame Past Negligence for Collapse in Fishing Sector

Progressive National Congress (PNC) parliamentarians on Tuesday criticised previous administrations for the current struggles faced by the fishing industry, citing years of neglect, poor planning, and unsustainable policies. The remarks were made during a debate on an emergency motion submitted by opposition MP Hussain Ziyad regarding the long delays faced by yellowfin tuna fishermen, who now have to wait for days in queues to offload their catch.

The motion, submitted by Vaikaradhoo MP Hussain Ziyad, called on the government to urgently address the concerns of yellowfin tuna fishermen who are facing long queues to offload their catch. Ziyad stated that the backlog currently stands at 120 tons, resulting in fish spoilage and major financial losses for fishermen.

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Though opposition-submitted motions are often rejected, today’s motion was accepted with the support of ruling party lawmakers, highlighting the seriousness of the issue.

In his motion, Ziyad also pointed out that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had pledged to maintain the price of large yellowfin tuna between MVR 80 and MVR 100 per kilogram, allocate shares of MIFCO to fishermen, and establish a yellowfin processing factory in Hulhumalé this year. However, he noted that none of these promises have been fulfilled to date.

Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, speaking in support of the motion, admitted that the promised price range is not being maintained and said the industry is suffering due to longstanding negligence.

MP for Baarah, Ibrahim Shujau, also weighed in, accusing the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) — which held power for two terms — of failing to deliver on its repeated promises to develop the sector, including pledges to introduce an offshore platform. He contrasted that with what he described as swift action by the current administration, including settling long standing arrears owed to fishermen and ensuring payments are now made within 48 hours.

Ruling party MPs further criticized the previous government’s policy of purchasing tuna at MVR 25 per kilogram, calling it financially unsustainable and one of the reasons behind the backlog.

They argued that the PNC-led government is now working to stabilize and strengthen the sector after inheriting a mismanaged system. However, they acknowledged that much more needs to be done to resolve the backlog and meet the promises made to fishermen.

Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla concluded today’s session at 10:30 a.m., citing the need for committee meetings—a practice that has been ongoing for the past few weeks. Despite Parliament sessions typically running until 2:00 p.m., multiple sittings have ended early in recent weeks, drawing increasing public criticism over the lack of debate time and delays in addressing key legislative items.