President Muizzu Visits Utheemu to Lead National Day Honor Ceremonies

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed have arrived in Utheemu, Haa Alif Atoll, to spearhead the official celebrations of National Day. The presidential couple received a warm reception from the local community upon their arrival on the historic island. A central highlight of the visit is the official National Day ceremony, where President Muizzu will present several prestigious accolades. This year, the National Award of Honour will be bestowed upon three individuals and one association. Additionally, the National Award of Recognition will be granted to seven individuals and one company, while the National Award for Service will be awarded posthumously in memory of one individual. Beyond the awards ceremony, the President's itinerary includes the inauguration of the “Boduthakurufaanu Handhaanee Dhoruashi” and the unveiling of a specialized exhibition. The exhibition is designed to commemorate the national jihad led by Bodu Thakurufaanu, providing historical context to the struggle for Maldivian sovereignty. Festivities in Utheemu began yesterday with a formal flag-raising ceremony, followed by a traditional fireworks display that illuminated the island's skyline last night. National Day is one of the Maldives' most significant historical milestones, marking the end of Portuguese colonial rule in 1573. The liberation was achieved through a determined resistance movement led by Sultan Al-Ghazi Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-A’uzam and five compatriots. Traditionally observed on 1 Rabi’ul Awwal, the day serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice required to secure the nation's independence.