Today we carry upon our shoulders, an onus more important than that our ancestors sustained: President Waheed

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that today we carry upon our shoulders, an onus more important than that our ancestors sustained. He made this statement while delivering his Presidential Address today at this year’s first sitting of the first session of the People’s Majlis.

The President said that the numerous privileges our children enjoy today, such as the gift of education and comfortable living standards, were the result of our forefathers having safeguarded the assets of the country, under the shelter of independence and territorial dignity.

In his address, the President said that the government will not accept calling for Constitutional amendments, resignation of the President, elections to be held before a certain date, or the participation of foreign representatives in any form of political activities in the Maldives.

President Waheed said that one of the highest priorities of his administration was to strengthen the principles of Islamic faith among the people. Continuing in this regard, the President emphasised the colossal efforts of the Government to eliminate religious extremism and to promote moderation as advocated in Islam. The President further highlighted on the favourable measures taken by the Maldives to attain progress and prosperity, and to promote and protect human rights.

Underscoring that the Maldivians have always defended their independence from foreign influence, President Waheed stressed on the sacrifices made by our ancestors with their lives and blood.

In his Presidential Address, the President noted that the keystone of our independence is the allegiance of our forefathers to the ideals and integrity of the Maldives, and that the foundation of our unity lies in Islam. The President said that our common faith, language and ethnicity were the reason why our nation should not disintegrate into opposing factions.

Continuing in this regard, the President reminded the people to be vigilant of the patience and determination necessary to maintain our independence and individuality, and to unwaveringly hold on to our Islamic faith.