Siyam: The biggest gift is independence, it is obligatory to defend it

Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, the president of Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) and the parliamentary representative for Dh. Meedhoo constituency, on Tuesday, cited independence as the biggest gift Maldives has received, adding it is everyone's responsibility to defend it. 

In an address to the nation on the occasion of Martyrs' Day, Siyam conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to the people of the Maldives on the occasion. He also prayed for the heroes who laid down their lives to defend the Islamic religion and the Maldivian nation to be blessed with Jannah.

Siyam noted that Martyrs' Day honors the death of Sultan Ali VI, who died defending the nation against Portuguese invaders.

He added that the day also serves as a reminder of the bitter lessons learned from Sultan events which followed Hassan’s betrayal of the nation, renouncing Islam.

Siyam cited the longstanding independence enjoyed by the Maldives as the biggest gift the country has received. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of every single citizen to defend the nation against any factor that threatens its independence.

“When commemorating a Martyr’s Day, Maldives’ policies should be formulated in a manner which ensures the nation stands firm on rough seas and a safe future in light of the battles fought by our national heroes,” he said.

Siyam also stressed the need to foster youngsters who are proud of their country.

He concluded his address with a prayer, seeking blessing for joint efforts and prosperity for Maldives and its citizens.