Sacrifice for the country extends beyond uniforms: President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that the responsibility to safeguard the nation is not limited to those in MNDF or police uniforms, urging all Maldivians to contribute to the country’s wellbeing.

Speaking at this year’s Victory Day ceremony at the Social Centre, the President noted that while past threats to national independence came with weapons, modern dangers can undermine freedom through economic, technological, or social means.

“Sacrifice for the country cannot be done only by wearing MNDF or police uniforms… Destroying our unity today is no longer about sword and gun. It is almost easy to destroy our economy and take away the freedom we have if we do not remain vigilant,” he said.

President Muizzu stressed the power of intellect and individual responsibility, encouraging citizens to act in ways that protect the nation, including monitoring anti-national activities on social media.

Victory Day is observed annually on November 3 to mark the failed coup attempt by a group of Maldivians and Sri Lankan Tamil mercenaries in 1988, which claimed 19 lives, including eight soldiers and 11 civilians.

During the ceremony, former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom received a special commemorative shield, and shields were also presented to the families of those martyred in the attack.