No Confidence Motion Filed Against Fisheries Minister

A motion of no-confidence against Zaha Waheed, Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources, and Agriculture, has been lodged at the Citizens' Majlis.

The motion of no-confidence had been lodged by the opposition Progressive Coalition. All 10 parliamentarians of the Coalition and MP Abdullah Jabir (Kashidhoo), an independent, had all signed the motion.

According to the motion, the government has failed to work to fulfill its promises to fishermen. As examples, the motion cited that the government has been unable to guarantee fair prices for their catch; promised opportunities for fishermen to get more United States dollars have not been provided. The motion also stated that the Maldivian economy's major issues have not been fixed; and the profits earned by fishermen have not increased.

The motion also cited the Solih administration's failed promise to establish offshore platforms. The platforms were supposed to help fishing vessels from travelling long distances to refuel and restock on ice.

The motion read that Minister Zaha Waheed has failed to carry out her responsibilities in fulfilling the government's many vows to fishermen; and that her continued tenure would continue to "impoverish" fishermen and their families.