Flag-hoisting ceremonies held across the Maldives to mark MDP's 21st anniversary

To mark the 21st anniversary of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the nation's first political party, special flag-hoisting ceremonies have been held across all islands of the Maldives.

These activities commenced across various parts of the Maldives at 6:00 AM on Friday, June 26, 2026.

The ceremony was held at the MDP's main headquarters in Malé. The event was attended by a large number of the party's general members and senior officials, and featured the cutting of a special cake prepared to mark the anniversary.

Looking at the history of the MDP, it holds the distinction of being the first political party to be registered in the Maldives, officially established on June 26, 2005, immediately following the legalization of political parties in the country. Following its registration, the MDP convened its inaugural congress in December 2005. During this landmark assembly, the party conducted elections for its various internal bodies and undertook the foundational work of formulating its core policies.

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) remains one of the most influential and popular political entities in the Maldives. Having held the presidency on two separate occasions, the party continues to focus on strengthening its internal governance, most recently evidenced by the election of former President Mohamed Nasheed as its Chairperson.

The MDP has always advocated for the protection of citizens' rights and the establishment of a full democracy in the Maldives. The party maintains that it remains the only political force that has earned the public's trust through its relentless and consistent efforts in the country's reform movement.