People flood Male’ streets to spectate first Independence Day parade in two years

Spectators observing MNDF's military parade held in Male' City to celebrate 57th Independence Day of Maldives on July 26, 2022. (Sun Photo/Hayyan Mohamed)

People of Male’ City flooded the roads on Tuesday evening, to spectate the first military parade in two years by Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF).

The last military parade held by MNDF took place on July 27, 2019. In the two years which followed, military parades were not held in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In celebration of the 57^th Independence Day of Maldives, the military parade kicked off from the Republic’s Square in Male’ City at 4:30pm in the evening.

A capture from MNDF's military parade held in Male' City to celebrate 57th Independence Day of Maldives on July 26, 2022. (Sun Photo/Hayyan Mohamed)

Before the parade took to the roads – President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was offered a presidential salute which was followed by the National Anthem, performed by an ensemble orchestra comprising MNDF officers.

The military parade and procession took to major roads in Male’ City, making four stops. People, including children, flooded the roads to spectate the parade. During the stops, the orchestra put on musical performances.