The Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) or the yellowfin tuna fishermen’s union, has stated that participants in its planned protest, launched in response to what they describe as the government’s continued failure to address long-standing concerns over yellowfin tuna fishing, departed for Malé on Wednesday afternoon.

The protest, organized to coincide with this year’s Fishermen’s Day, began Wednesday morning at 9:30am at the Hulhumalé Kanneli Jetty with 49 boats taking part.

After gathering at the jetty, the vessels set sail toward Malé at approximately 1:20pm.

Fishermen participating in the protest are pressing three core demands: for the state-owned fish processing company, MIFCO, to begin purchasing yellowfin tuna as pledged in the current government’s manifesto; for the government to set a minimum purchase price for tuna between MVR 80 and MVR 100; and for fishermen to receive fuel and ice at a base rate.

The union underscored that these commitments were government promises and stresses that they have repeatedly sought delivery on them since the start of the current administration.

It noted that it has held multiple consultative meetings and discussions with government officials and fish buyers, issued statements and formally communicated its concerns to the Ministry of Fisheries, all without meaningful progress.