President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu reversed the government's decision to allow long-line fishing today, amid concern from the fisheries industry and environmental organizations.
The President's Office said that the President reversed his decision following a submission by the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) urging him to reconsider allowing long-line fishing.
It further said that the President would meet with BKMU and other relevant organizations today to discuss his decision in more detail.
The President's Office added that the government will always strive to listen to the views and consultations of the people and formulate government policies to bring about positive changes in the country.
Longline fishing, or longlining, is a commercial fishing angling technique that uses a long main line with baited hooks attached at intervals via short branch lines.
The fisheries industry as well as some environmental organizations have been voicing concern against reintroducing this form of fishing as they say it would cause irreversible damage to the fisheries industry.
BKMU along with some environmental organizations have welcomed the President's decision.
