MDP Calls for Immediate Release of MP Mauroof Zakir Arrested During Police Crackdown on Fishermen’s Protest

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has called for the immediate release of Kendhoo Constituency MP Mauroof Zakir, who was arrested during a police crackdown on a fishermen’s protest regarding yellowfin tuna.

Police yesterday dispersed a protest that fishermen had been conducting since Wednesday afternoon near the official jetty in Male’, calling on MIFCO to purchase yellowfin tuna. Mauroof was arrested along with two other individuals.

In a statement issued last night, MDP said that while the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly exist, police unconstitutionally stopped the fishermen’s peaceful protest using force. The party stated that MP Mauroof’s arrest also violated the immunities granted to parliamentary members.

A police media official said that protest participants obstructed vessels traveling near Male’ and did not comply with police advice. Police also stated that fishermen attempted to bring boats into areas prohibited by security forces.

The government has announced that practical work on establishing a facility to process yellowfin tuna in Hulhumale’ will begin in January. The government also stated that arrangements for fuel to be available at STO rates from at least one island in each atoll will be finalized by the end of March.