In a solemn observance of National Day 1446, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed attended the flag-hoisting ceremony held early Wednesday morning at Republic Square. The ceremony, which began at 6 a.m., marked the beginning of the nation’s annual commemoration of its liberation from Portuguese rule.
Joining the President and First Lady at the event were Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and his spouse, Aishath Afreen Mohamed, along with several senior government officials. The President and his entourage were greeted upon arrival by Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon and Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim.
The flag-hoisting ceremony was a central part of the event, underscoring the importance of the day. In addition to raising the national flag, a special prayer was recited, reflecting the spiritual significance of the occasion. The ceremony concluded with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) military band performing the national anthem, adding a patriotic flourish to the proceedings.
National Day, observed annually on the first of Rabi’ al-Awwal, serves as a poignant reminder of the heroic efforts of al-Sultan al-Ghaazee Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-A’uzam, who led the fight to free the Maldives from Portuguese control. The day honors the resilience, bravery, and sacrifice that have shaped the nation’s independence and continues to be a symbol of national pride.
