Defending the Nation Is Not Just for Military or Police, Says President Muizzu

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on all Maldivians to take pride in defending the nation, stressing that sacrificing for the country is not limited to military or police personnel.

Speaking at this year’s official Victory Day event at the Social Centre, the President highlighted how threats to freedom have evolved. He noted that in the past, countries used to take away a nation’s independence through weapons, but that has now changed. 

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“What I want to say most importantly today is that the people who sacrifice themselves are not only the people wearing the uniforms of the military or the police.”

He urged citizens to see defending the nation as both a responsibility and a source of pride.

 “All Maldivian citizens should consider it a matter of pride and responsibility that they can contribute to the independence, its sovereignty, and that they have a role to play in preserving it for the next generations, and that they should do it if they are able to,” he added.

The President noted that while not all citizens can be trained in weapons, everyone has the ability to contribute with their minds, a gift from God. He also stressed the importance of a free economy in maintaining national independence.

Reflecting on historical figures, Muizzu drew parallels between national heroes such as Ali Rasgefaanu, Bodu Thakurufaanu, and Dhon Bandaarain and the patriots who defended the Maldives on 3 November 1988. 

“Boduthakurufaanu, Dhon Bandaarain, the November 3 martyrs and others who had put the Maldives ahead of their lives when faced with attack, upholding the national responsibility and martyring in the process, we commemorate their memory,” he said, describing their legacy as a source of national pride.

He emphasised that educating future generations about these sacrifices is crucial. 

“We need to teach our youth about who we are, about the sacrifices made to bring our country to where it is today, and what those sacrifices entail,” he said.

President Muizzu also highlighted the Maldives’ National Service programme, introduced this year to provide training for youth who do not meet academic or vocational entry requirements after secondary education. The programme will train 1,000 participants annually, aiming to instill patriotism and readiness to serve the nation. 

“Producing a group of people who loved the country and were ready to sacrifice their lives for it was an important achievement for us,” he said.

In a post on X, the President reiterated that the nation’s progress relies on citizens who prioritise the country’s interests. “The courageous legacy of defending the country on November 3, 1988, proved that, like Ali Rasgefaanu, Boduthakurufaan, and Dhonbandarayan, the people who upheld the sovereignty and independence of this nation and answered its call with all their hearts and souls will always remain part of this land,” he wrote.