Vice President and Parliament Speaker Arrive in Utheemu for National Day Celebrations

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla have arrived in Utheemu, Haa Alif Atoll, to participate in the official celebrations of National Day. Upon their arrival at the island's harbour, the leaders were greeted by a diverse crowd of residents across all age groups. The festivities serve as a commemoration of the Maldives' liberation from Portuguese rule in 1573. This historic independence was achieved through a determined resistance movement led by Sultan Al-Ghazi Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-A’uzam and five companions, traditionally marked on 1 Rabi’ul Awwal. The central events will culminate on the morning of August 15. President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed are scheduled to arrive in Utheemu at 8:30 am, with the formal National Day ceremony beginning at 10:00 am. The day's itinerary includes the opening of the “Boduthakurufaanu Handhaanee Dhoruashi” and a curated exhibition detailing the history and significance of National Day. Commemorative activities officially began on August 14, featuring a ceremonial flag-raising and a fireworks display that illuminated the island's evening sky. Utheemu remains a site of immense historical importance to the Maldivian identity, as it is the birthplace of Muhammad Thakurufaanu. By bringing together the nation's highest leadership and the local community, the event underscores the enduring legacy of sovereignty and courage that defines the Maldivian spirit.