Minister: MVR 4.1 million spent on 60th Independence Day festivities

Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attend Maldives’ 60th Independence Day parade July 26, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)

Heritage Minister Heena Waleed says the state spent over MVR 4 million on the festivities held last year to celebrate the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day.

Heena, who was summoned to the Parliament on Wednesday morning, was asked by North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu), a lawmaker from the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), for an account of the spending on the Independence Day celebrations, including the overall cost and details of individual expenses.

Maldives holds a parade to celebrate its 60th Independence Day at the Republic Square in Male' on July 26, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)

Heena responded that the state spent total MVR 4.1 million on the celebrations, but did not provide any details.

“Furthermore, Independence Day celebrations weren’t held in any island outside of Male’,” she added.

Heritage Minister Heena Waleed responds to questions at the Parliament on July 1, 2026. (Photo/People's Majlis)

The Maldives celebrates its Independence Day annually on July 26, commemorating the day the country gained full independence from the British in 1965.

Last year’s festivities included a flag-hoisting ceremony, a military parade, and official function.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited the Maldives at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu over the Independence Day holiday, and served as chief guest during the parade.