Yellowfin tuna fishermen officially ended their seven-day protest today after the government agreed to address their concerns.
The demonstration, which focused on unfulfilled government promises, concluded following productive discussions held between the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) and state officials.
Hussain Nashid, the President of the BKMU, confirmed that the decision to stop the protest came after the government showed a positive response to their proposals.
He noted that individuals arrested during the demonstration were released starting last night, and fishing boats are now preparing to return to sea. Nashid highlighted that the government has pledged to prioritize discussions on establishing a system for MIFCO to begin purchasing yellowfin tuna.
The fishermen had presented three primary demands during the strike: that the government begins purchasing their catch, that the price of yellowfin tuna be maintained between 80 and 100 Rufiyaa per kilogram, and that fuel and ice be provided at base rates.
According to the union, Fisheries Minister Shiyam provided assurances during a meeting at Velaanaage on Monday that the government would reach a final decision regarding these demands within the next two weeks.
For now, the fishermen are returning to work while they wait for the government to finalize these commitments.
