Male’ streets fill up with spectators to watch the Independence Day parade

Male’ streets were filled up by spectators on Friday evening to watch the military parade, route march, and display by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and National Cadet Corps in commemoration of Maldives’ 59^th Independence Day.

The parade was also observed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, First Lady Sajidha Ahmed, cabinet ministers and senior officials from government offices and institutions

The parade was initially planned for July 26^th, which Maldives marks as Independence Day. However, it had to be postponed in light of weather conditions.

Male’ streets were filled with a large number of adults and children to watch the parade which kicked off 4:15pm this evening. In contrast to previous years, MNDF did not showcase their military vehicles in this year’s parade.

However, different units showcased their respective uniforms. The children were highly captivated by the uniforms worn by special forces’ snipers.

While the Independence Day parade was held today, President Muizzu decided against holding events planned to commemorate the occasion apart from the national reception in order to reduce the state’s expenses due to the current economic state.

Maldives became a British protectorate in the 19^th century.

The country gained total independence from the British on July 26, 1965, following the signing of The Declaration of Independence by then-Maldivian Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir.