11.11 – The Birth of a Republic Nation

The death of Sultan Abdul Majeed Didi on 21^st February 1952 arose chaos across the Maldivian nation when Mr. Mohamed Ameen Did, who was chosen as his successor by the parliament refused to accept the title. This led to the first ever constitutional referendum held in the county in order to determine the island nation’s future governing structure. The voting which took place solely in the capital Male’ City which was counted to have favored the conversion of the existing monarchial system into a republic nation.

Consequently, the first ever people elected President Mohamed Amin Didi assumed office on 1^st January 1953. However, his administration was short lived by the virtue of a revolution whereas he was eradicated from his position on 21^st August 1953. Following this, a second constitutional referendum was held which ultimately restored a monarchial system yet again in the year 1954. Nonetheless, the Maldivian islanders changed their minds once again but this time for good. A third constitutional referendum was held in which 93.34% people voted in favor of a republic nation. On 11^th November 1968, the country officially declared itself to the world as ‘Republic of Maldives’, effectively bringing an end to a symbolic 853 years old monarchy.

To this day, we remain as a republic nation. Every 11^th of November is marked a public holiday to celebrate the birth of a republic nation. Although it is usual to see festive events taking place in order to commemorate the day, this year, we deviate from this tradition due the safety concern in the light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

However, as usual, the incumbent President of the Republic of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih addressed the nation on the occasion earlier this morning focusing on the milestones reached so far since assuming office.