President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has recalled historical attacks on the Maldives’ independence, highlighting lessons from the nation’s past during the official Victory Day ceremony held at Republic Square tonight.

In his address, the President said history offers a window into the future, noting that past attacks on the Maldives and the victories achieved by its forefathers offer important lessons.

Referring to Portuguese attacks dating back to the 16th century, he said Portuguese warships had been positioned outside the Republic Square area during a fierce conflict. He noted that Sultan Park, near the Islamic Centre, was once the site of the royal palace, with the fiercest attacks taking place between the two locations.

The President said the Portuguese were able to inflict significant damage after a group seeking the return of a former ruler undermined Maldivian independence and internal stability.

He also recalled the 1753 Malabar attack, during which the royal palace, then around 800 years old, several mosques and homes were burnt down, the ruler was taken captive and many citizens were killed. State archives and historical documents preserved for centuries were also destroyed.

He described the Malabar attack and the Boduthakurufaanu incident as episodes in which external colonial powers exploited divisions among Maldivians to undermine national security and destroy property and national heritage.

Highlighting the significance of Victory Day, President Dr Muizzu said the 3 November attack, carried out with the complicity of Maldivians who betrayed the nation, claimed the lives of 19 Maldivians.

He said the places where the martyrs stood and the special building named after Shaheed Hussain Adam continue to honour the nation’s independence and the sacrifice of its heroes.

The President said the martyrs placed the country’s independence and security above their own families, adding that loyalty to the nation brings happiness, while betrayal leads to lasting sorrow.