President Muizzu Leads National Flag Hoisting for 61st Independence Day

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed led the nation in commemorating the 61st Anniversary of Maldives’ Independence during an official flag-hoisting ceremony early Sunday morning. The ceremony took place at 6:00 am at Republic Square, serving as the primary national observance to mark the historic milestone of the country's sovereignty. The President and First Lady were joined by Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and several senior government officials. Upon their arrival at the square, the First Couple was formally greeted by the Minister of Defence and National Service, Hassan Rasheed, and the Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage, Heena Waleed. Following strict protocol, the national flag was raised with full military honors, symbolizing the resilience and autonomy of the Maldivian state. The proceedings included a special prayer recited for the nation's continued prosperity and peace. The event concluded with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, performed by the military band of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), marking the start of the nationwide Independence Day celebrations. The Maldives celebrates its Independence Day every year on 26 July, reflecting on the nation's journey and its enduring identity as a sovereign state in the Indian Ocean.