President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has appealed to the Maldivian public, members of political parties, and all politicians to prioritize national harmony, over political interests. The President made this remark while speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony held on Saturday at Republic Square, on the occasion of the nation’s 49th Independence Day.
In this regard, the President highlighted that that this year’s Independence Day coincides with a period of sustained peace and harmony in Maldivian society, while also marking the beginnings of escalated socioeconomic development for the people. Accordingly, he stated that while, in the past, political opponents have been willing to destabilize the country in the selfish pursuit of their personal political ambitions, the Government will not entertain or tolerate any such destabilizing efforts.
“I do not believe that the quest for public popularity should necessarily involve plunging the nation into chaos”, President Yameen noted.
On behalf of the Government and the Maldivian people, the President also expressed his gratitude to the national heroes for their sacrifices, which were significant in helping the country achieve Independence.
He stated that, “while we attained our full political Independence without any violence or bloodshed, the blessing of Independence was bestowed upon us by the Almighty Allah after much perseverance and by making a strong national stand”.
Noting that the most important responsibility of the Government is to safeguard the country’s proud Islamic faith, President Yameen emphasized that the prevalence of peace and prosperity in Maldivian society remains the cornerstone of the country’s independent identity. He also underscored that the Government attaches a special priority to the wellbeing of the youth in the Maldives.
Underlining that there is no greater gift for a State than its Independence, the President highlighted the suffering of the Palestinian people in their just and noble fight for an independent homeland. On behalf of the Government, the President strongly condemned the brutal attacks by Israel on the innocent people of Palestine. He also called on the international community, through the auspices of the United Nations, to take clear action to ensure that the Palestinian people are safeguarded from the Israeli military’s brutality.
