MNDF holds Victory Run to mark defeat of 1988 coup attempt

Maldives National Defense Force (MDNF) has held a Victory Run to mark the 31st anniversary to the defeat of the coup attempt of 1988.

The coup attempt on November 3, 1988 to overthrow former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s administration killed 19 Maldivian citizens; eight officers and 11 civilians.

The defeat of the coup attempt is marked on every November 3 as Victory Day.

MNDF began its Victory Run – a display of military prowess, solidarity, and patriotism - at 6 am this Saturday.

The run was partaken by a large number MNDF officers, and was led by Chief of Defense Force Major-General Abdulla Shamaal and Vice Chief of Defense Force Brigadier-General Abdul Raheem Abdul Lathfeef.

Nasruge dhuvahuge munaasabathugai, miadhu hendhunu, Male' City gai MNDF in beyvvi "Victory run" ge therein. Mi run gai @CDFofMNDF aai General officarunnaai Officers ge ithurun ehenihen rank thakuge gina adhadhehge sifain baiverivi. pic.twitter.com/U6jYRWoyCx

— Maldives National Defence Force (@MNDF_Official) November 2, 2019

The runners began from the Kalhuthukkala Koshi, turned west, and covered the Male’ City via Boduthakurufaanu Magu route, before returning to Kalhuthukkala Koshi.

The Victory Run in the capital was mirrored in the MNDF Norther Area, MNDF Central Area, and the MNDF Southern Area.

The Victory Run, in addition to being a display of military prowess, solidarity and patriotism, serves to commemorate the national heroes who sacrificed their lives to protect the nation and religion.

MNDF is scheduled to hold the Victory Day drill at 4:30 pm at the Republic Square later this Saturday.