Republic Day 2020

Republic day is an important day in the Maldives which is celebrated on November 11 every year. This holiday celebrates the change of Maldives from a monarchy to a republic.




The Maldives was a protectorate of the British Empire. The British provided military protection but did not interfere in the internal affairs of the islands, though they still had to be consulted on key changes in the administration. 


The death of Sultan Majeed Didi and his son Prince Hassan Fareed Didi, briefly made Maldives a republic on January 1, 1953 because the selected sultanate refused to take the crown. Following which a referendum was held and Maldives was proclaimed as a republic thereby putting an end to the 812 years of the sultanate. 
However, the monarchy was restored in March 1954.

Maldives became independent in July 1965 when the then Maldives' Prime Minister and the British Ambassador signed an agreement putting an end to the British responsibility for defence and external affairs of the Maldives. The Maldives parliament voted in favour of changing from a constitutional monarchy to a republic in November 1967. Over 80% of the voters chose to establish a republic when a referendum took place on March 15th 1968. Hence, the second republic of the Maldives was proclaimed on November 11th 1968. And from that year onwards this day is celebrated as the Republic Day. 

It is important to rejoice and take pride in celebrating this day. Because being a republic allows greater freedom and prosperity. The economic pursuit benefits the entire nation ensuring that people are able to live well. Because a republic government of a country will serve the interest of all the citizens whereas the same cannot be expected from a monarchical government. In a republic, leaders emerge out of talent and public interest and not through their birth right. And in a republic government changes and reforms come by vote and not by force. 

Maradhoo School celebrated Jumhoory Dhuvas to instil the importance of the republic government in the hearts and minds of the upcoming generation. Activities Captain, Ahmed Alan Umar of 8B gave a speech on the same. We all should remember that our nation will prosper and cherish if we are responsible citizens. So let us all work towards the progress of our nation in unity.

by
Mohammad Ameen H
English Teacher


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