Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy has said one of the most important lessons of the November 3, 1988 attack is the need to maintain a capable military force to defend the country’s independence.
Hilmy made the remarks while speaking at the opening of the Victory Day military parade held at Republic Square on Monday morning.
He described the 1988 coup attempt as the most dangerous attack in recent Maldivian history, noting that it left many children orphaned and many women widowed.
“One of the key lessons of November 3 is the need to continuously develop a military force capable of responding to potential threats,” he said.
Hilmy also highlighted President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s efforts to strengthen the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), and expressed gratitude on behalf of the armed forces and their families for the President’s recognition of their sacrifices.
“Today, we breathe in a free atmosphere because of the noble sacrifices made by the Maldivian Army and our ancestors to defend the nation’s independence,” he said.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu attends the Flag and Guard Mounting ceremony at Victory Day Monument on November 3, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)
Referring to the 1988 attack, Hilmy described it as a “noble jihad” fought by the Maldivian Army against a dangerous aggression carried out in collaboration with a foreign terrorist group and local traitors. He called it a “precious religious and national service that will never fade.”
Hilmy noted that Victory Day was previously marked in a modest manner, but under President Muizzu’s leadership, it has become one of the most vibrantly celebrated national days.
The November 3 attack was carried out by a group of Sri Lankan Tamil Tigers, aided by Maldivian collaborators. Nineteen people were killed in the assault, including eight soldiers.