Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyamu has appealed to the fishermen protesting in GA. Kooddoo to give them some time to release MVR 280 million, which is owed to the fishermen.

The fishermen had been protesting since yesterday morning, alleging that MIFCO was prolonging payments due to the fishermen. The operations at Kooddoo fisheries complex has come to a halt in the wake of the protests.

Speaking to the protesting fishermen in Kooddoo to resolve the issue, Minister Shiyam said the country was facing a turbulent time today, but that President Dr. Muizzu's policies will be beneficial for the fishermen and the industry in the coming years.

"I'm just asking you to give us just a little time," Minister Shiyam said.

He added that efforts are being made in various ways to pay the dues for the fishermen, adding that they are working closely with the country's banks, the Ministry of Finance and MIFCO to ensure the payments will be completed by 5 March.

Although Shiyam repeatedly asked the fishermen for some time to resolve the issue, some fishermen present at the protest objected to it, citing they have given the administration enough time to complete the payments.