President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has stated, it is high time for individuals to take a stand against people who try to tarnish the image of the country to obtain political motives.
In his official address to coincide with the 126th anniversary of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Commander-in-Chief, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom said, for members of the defence force, no service should precede their duty to uphold Islam, the constitution, and the freedom and sovereignty of the country. In this regard, President Yameen called on the officers of the Maldives National Defence Force to adhere to their oath and duty and stated that they should take firm steps to maintain peace and justice in the country.
Noting that the country’s enemies are no longer just from abroad, President Yameen emphasised on the need to defend the country from individuals who, via unlawful actions, compromise the country's religion and constitution, blinded by designs on the throne in this polarised political environment.
Referring to the increase in attempts to abuse the influences preserved for certain authorities of the state, the President said that the involvement of state dignitaries in such attempts warrants introspection. On this note, the President highlighted, leaders who had previously served as President and Commanders-in-Chief have also called on foreign powers to invade Maldives and said that such actions should not be taken lightly by any individual as they threaten the independence and sovereignty of Maldives. President Yameen said, such actions act as weapons which would demolish the image of Maldives as a peaceful and harmonious nation.
Describing the Supreme Court verdict of the first of February as a dangerous attack on the country, the President praised the courage shown by the MNDF during the national crisis.
President Yameen expressed gratitude to the defence forces for the display of loyalty and faithfulness by the defence forces in every such national crisis.