President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed joined the public on Sunday to witness a military parade held by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), celebrating its 133rd anniversary.
The commemorative parade featured a vibrant display of personnel and assets from the army’s land, sea, and air divisions, beginning from the MNDF headquarters at Bandaara Koshi and winding through the streets of Malé.
As Commander-in-Chief, President Muizzu conducted a formal inspection of the troops near the President’s Office, where he received a Presidential salute. Accompanying him were members of his family, Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon, Cabinet Ministers, and senior government officials.
Thousands of spectators, including families with children, lined the route to watch the ceremonial procession. The event drew strong public interest, with many seen capturing the moment on cameras and mobile phones. In a gesture that resonated with the crowd, President Muizzu stepped forward during the parade to interact with citizens and pose for photos.
The MNDF band delivered five performances throughout the march, complementing the display of military discipline and coordination. Various units of the armed forces showcased the wide array of services and capabilities offered by MNDF, reinforcing their preparedness to protect the nation.
In a statement, MNDF said the aim of the parade was not only to mark the anniversary but also to reaffirm the vital role the military plays in safeguarding national sovereignty. It also sought to inspire patriotism among Maldivians, especially the younger generation.
The Maldivian military traces its origins back to April 21, 1892. What began as a modest force has evolved over more than a century into the modern-day MNDF, a vital institution tasked with national defence, maritime security, emergency response, and public service.
