President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed have attended the special military parade and commemorative activities organized by the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) to mark Victory Day.

The ceremony, held at Republic Square in Malé, included a special flag-hoisting and guard-changing ceremony at the November 3 Memorial.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who also serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Maldives Armed Forces, formally honored the military proceedings. The First Lady accompanied the President at the ceremony. Cabinet ministers, senior government officials and other invited dignitaries were also in attendance.

According to the President's Office, the ceremony was held in honor of the national heroes who lost their lives defending the country during the events of November 3, 1988.

Victory Day, observed annually on November 3, commemorates the Maldives' victory against an armed attack in 1988, when a group of Maldivian insurgents, supported by Sri Lankan mercenaries belonging to the People's Liberation Organization of Tamil Eelam, commonly known as PLOTE, attempted to overthrow the government.

The attack posed a serious threat to the country's sovereignty and national security. The attempted coup was ultimately defeated with assistance from Indian military forces, following an emergency request for intervention from the Maldivian government.

The events of November 3 remain a defining moment in the modern history of the Maldives, symbolizing the country's resilience, the defense of its independence and the sacrifices made by those who stood to protect the nation.

Victory Day commemorations serve as an annual reminder of the importance of national security, sovereignty and the role of the armed forces in safeguarding the country.

Through this year's military proceedings, the MNDF pays tribute to the fallen heroes while honouring the courage and dedication of those who continue to serve in protecting the Maldives.