Victory Day Silent Drill- Photo: PSM News Minister of Defence and National Security Adam Shareef Umar has stated that traitors who have betrayed the country still roam freely, among us. The Minister made the remark while addressing the official function held to mark the 29th Victory Day.
Maldives National Defence Force held the official function to mark the 29th Victory Day, on Friday. Commemorated annually, Victory Day marks the defeat of an attempted coup against the elected government in 1988. The coup, led by local businessman Abdulla Luthufy, was supported by mercenaries hired from Sri Lanka's rebellious Tamil guerilla organization, People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE).
Addressing the official function organized by MNDF to mark the day, Minister of Defence and National Security Adam Shareef Umar shed light on the history behind the occasion. He noted that, while we mark the victory over the attempted coup and rebellion, it is important to note alleged attempts by some individuals, even at present, to overthrow the elected government. He highlighted the importance of vigilance in the face of such cowardly acts.
img:http://s2.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/15097778740814.jpg|MNDF "Victory Run"- Photo: MNDF
The Defence Minister stated that the country is at present blessed with a President, who is patriotic, loves the people, and is ready to defend the nation against such treason. Minister Adam Shareef further said that Maldivian Defence Forces remain committed to protect and serve the nation without deterrence. He also noted that Maldivians are affected by things which occur outside the borders of the nation as well.
The Defence Minister stated that anything connected to the country, even if it occurs abroad, will gravely affect national welfare. The ceremony, held last night at Kalhuthukalaa Koshi, was attended by Chief of Defence Forces Major General Ahmed Shiyam and other MNDF officials.
img:http://s2.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/15097196555759.jpg|Victory Day Silent Drill- Photo: PSM News
MNDF also held a silent drill, Friday evening at the Republic Square to mark Victory Day, which was observed by Defence Minister, officers of MNDF and the public. Similar drills are to be held in Villigilli and Hulhumale.
img:http://s1.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/15097784519238.jpg|Panel discussion held on Victory Day during "Hukuru Ufaa"- Photo: PSM News
Meanwhile, the evening segment of the weekly 'Hukuru Ufa' Festival held every Friday by Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Public Service Media was dedicated to the Victory Day this week. A special penal discussion on the incident was held at the Islamic Center as part of the festival.
MNDF also organized a marathon, titled 'Victory Run' to mark the day. A number of soldiers from MNDF participated in the marathon held this morning in Male'.