A flag raising ceremony has kicked off the festivities of the Maldivian Independence Day.

The Commemorating 56 years of independence, the flag raising ceremony was held at the Republic Square this morning at 5:50 a.m.

The President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was welcomed at the ceremony by Defense Minister, Mariya Ahmed Didi and the Minister of Home Affairs, Imran Abdulla.

At the ceremony, the flag at the Republic Square was raised by officers of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the segment was followed by the national anthem and a special prayer led by Sheikh Ahmed Abdul Kareem.

Speaking at the ceremony, home Minister Imran said that even though the COVID-19 situation has changed how the daynis celebrated, an 18-hour program is set to take place by the name of "Minivan Unfaa" by the Home Ministry in association with the Public Service Media (PSM).

The program will feature activities and have represented Maldivian Independence and celebrate the the individuals and their efforts in protecting and sustaining the nation's independence.

Minister Imran thanked all those who are taking part in the special event with sub-programs by islands, organizations, and schools.