First Couple attends Independence Day celebrations

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed have attended the military display, procession, and festivities commemorating the 59th Independence Day.

The military display, procession, and festivities were held at the National Stadium on Wednesday. Vice President Faisal Naseem and his spouse, Aishath Shamsada, also attended the event.

Upon their arrival at the venue, the President and First Lady were greeted with presidential salutations. This was followed by a performance of the National Anthem by a combined ensemble orchestra of members from various School Bands and the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) military band.

The President and First Lady then observed a procession by the Armed Forces Guard and a collective squad from the Maldives’ schools, which marched past the Presidential Stand and honored the President with another salute.

The Independence Day celebrations featured a parade of honor by the Maldives National Cadet Corps (MNCC), with the participation of 14 schools from Malé.

The festivities also included cultural and musical performances by the MNDF, Hulhumalé junior and senior groups, two groups from Henveiru and Maafannu Wards in Malé, and groups from Kaashidhoo Island in Kaafu Atoll, Vashafaru Island in Haa Alifu Atoll, and Dhiggaru Island in Meemu Atoll.

This year, the Maldives celebrates its 58th anniversary of independence, which was gained on July 26, 1965.