President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed attended a military display organised by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) at Republic Square in Malé on Tuesday, as the country marked the 38th anniversary of Victory Day.
The event drew large crowds, including families and children, who gathered along the waterfront to watch military demonstrations and performances commemorating the defeat of the attempted coup on 3 November 1988.
President Muizzu, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, attended the ceremony alongside the First Lady, Cabinet ministers, senior government officials and invited dignitaries.
The programme featured demonstrations by different branches of the MNDF, giving spectators an opportunity to observe the equipment, vehicles and operational capabilities of the country’s armed forces.
Military personnel displayed uniforms and equipment used across various units, while vehicles deployed in land-based and maritime operations were also showcased.
The demonstrations were intended to familiarise the public with the work carried out by the armed forces and highlight developments in the MNDF’s operational capabilities.
Performances by the military band formed another part of the programme, alongside presentations reflecting the significance of Victory Day.
The annual military display is among the most popular events held during Victory Day commemorations, attracting considerable public interest, particularly among children.
This year’s event saw families gathering at Republic Square to watch the demonstrations and experience the military presentations at close range.
Victory Day is observed annually on 3 November to commemorate the defeat of an armed attempt to overthrow the government of then-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 1988.
The attack was carried out by militants belonging to the Sri Lankan organisation People’s Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE), working with Maldivian conspirators.
Armed militants launched an assault on Malé, targeting key locations in the capital and engaging Maldivian security forces in an attempt to seize control of the government.
Eight members of the Maldivian armed forces and 11 civilians were killed during the attack.
Maldivian soldiers resisted the attempted takeover, while India subsequently deployed military personnel under Operation Cactus to help defeat the attackers and restore security.
The events of 1988 remain an important part of the country’s modern history, with Victory Day dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives defending the Maldives.
Official commemorations traditionally include special prayers, flag-hoisting ceremonies, military demonstrations and national gatherings honouring the sacrifices of service personnel and civilians.
Tuesday’s military display formed part of the wider Victory Day programme, providing an opportunity for the public to engage with the armed forces while commemorating the country’s history.
