Maldivians should stay alert for imminent threats: Gayoom

With the changing political tides across the globe, Maldivians should always remain alert for the possibility of emergency threats and dangers, former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said.

Gayoom made these comments in his speech at the ceremony to mark the 36th Victory Day held last night at Dharubaaruge.

Victory Day is marked annually on November 3 on the anniversary of the day Maldives achieved victory over the attempted invasion by Abdulla Luthfee, H. Haajaraa, and Ahmed Nasir, Parisholiday, S. Hithadhoo in collusion with Sri Lanka's tamils on November 3, 1988.

This is the first time the former President has participated in a Victory Day event in recent years.

Maumoon impressed upon how the victory had been granted by Allah, and called on all to further strengthen their faith.

He added that the victory had been brought about through the cohesion and togetherness of the Maldivian people, and urged to continue nurturing the community spirit.

Gayoom emphasized that the nation must take priority over politics in all issues.

"The invading forces were not able to get any help from Maldivians, not even a cold cup of water on the warm day," Gayoom said, highlighting the Maldivians' determination to bind together in the face of adversity.

He said that events of the day clearly demonstrated the courage of Maldivians, who have it instilled in them to sacrifice all, even lives, in the cause of protecting the nation.

In his speech, Gayoom called on the government to continue building upon the ties with nations that provide assistance to the Maldives. He expressed undying gratitude of Maldivians to India for having been the first to offer assistance in combating the terrorists in the 1988 attack.

Gayoom also condemned the ongoing genocide being conducted in Palestine by Israel, asserting the sentiments are shared by all Maldivians.