PNC MP Fazeel expresses concern over preferential fish weighing rates for specific vessels while diesel supplies are cut due to unpaid bills

Dhaandhoo MP Mohamed Fazeel has expressed concern over fishermen being unable to access fuel due to outstanding payments, despite diesel being available at sheds. He noted that if such issues persist, the public will find it difficult to believe that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is fulfilling the promises he made to the fishing community.

During Tuesday's People's Majlis sitting, preliminary debates commenced on a government-sponsored bill to amend the Maldives Fisheries Act. The legislation was introduced by the Member of Parliament for South Thinadhoo, Mohamed Alsan Ahmed.

Debating the bill, Fazeel highlighted several challenges currently facing fishermen. Specifically, the member noted that various factors are causing significant delays in the supply of fuel to the fishing community.

The Member stated that the issue arose because fishermen were unable to access diesel at the FSM shed in Kooddoo, despite fuel being available, due to an unpaid bill owed to the Ministry of Finance. He described such incidents as regrettable, noting that if these situations persist, the public will find it difficult to believe that the President’s pledges are being fulfilled.

Furthermore, the member expressed concern over the challenges faced in weighing fish, alleging that discriminatory practices are being employed in the process.

There are several underlying issues regarding the weighing and sale of fish. It is unacceptable when the purchase price is hiked from 16 to 18 Rufiyaa just as the first two boats in the queue finish unloading their catch. If such changes are to be implemented, they must be communicated transparently to everyone involved. I am the son of a fisherman, and 70 percent of my constituency consists of fishermen. It is a region where the primary source of income is derived from the fishing industry.

Mohamed Fazeel, Member of Parliament for the Dhaandhoo constituency.

Opposition lawmakers have welcomed and highlighted remarks made by a member of the ruling PNC, who acknowledged that fishermen are currently facing numerous challenges. Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, the Member of Parliament for South Hulhumalé, expressed his satisfaction that PNC members in Parliament have, for the first time, begun to voice criticism regarding the current administration's handling of the issue.

Shamheed stated that he welcomed the fact that a member of the ruling PNC, particularly one representing Huvadhu Atoll, had spoken out regarding the government's neglect of fishing families who are currently facing extreme hardship.