GDH. Thinadhoo officially kick started the celebration of their 60th anniversary of Thinadhoo repopulation on 22nd August.

The events are in memory of the depopulation of Thinadhoo, where residents of the island were forcibly evacuated in 1962, during the Suvaide Rebellion under the tenure of the then Prime Minister, Ibrahim Nasir. The anniversary is in celebration of the resettlement of the population that took place 4 years after, in 1966.

Joining their celebration is former president Mohamed Nasheed, alongside Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom to participate in the 3 day commemoration.

The festivities commenced on the night of 21st August, with a float parade, known to be a timeless tradition in the Maldives.

This was then followed by a tree planting event held on the morning of 22nd August, in which 60 trees were planted by the senior citizens of the island, with the aim of enhancing the island’s natural landscape.

Among the activities done in celebration was a swimming event held at nearby inhabited island, Kafena at 9:00am on the 21st. 

Deputy Mayor of Thinadhoo, Ahmed Shiyaz Naeem has stated this event was to showcase the resilience, and endurance of the islanders during the forced evacuation of Thinadhoo in 1962, in which many residents were forced to swim across the same body of water. 

He further emphasized his point by stating this activity was held in order to carry the memory forward into the present and future generations, and honour those who were part of the depopulation.

The event remains to be the major highlights of the celebration, due to the history behind it, as well as the bravery of the islanders in the situation.

However, a family evening to be held on 22nd was postponed due to the harsh weather conditions, therefore is to be held on the 23rd instead.

Moreover, the two former presidents were welcomed at Thinadhoo amongst an array of citizens who’ve shown to welcome them to their island, alongside the mayor of Thinadhoo City Saud Ali,  the Deputy mayor Ahmed Shiyaz Naeem, , accompanied by Male’ City mayor Adam Azim.

Upon arrival, the former presidents initiated the 60th anniversary celebrations with a cultural programme, as well as a banquet held at Thinadhoo City North constituency.

As part of the three day programme, there is a ceremonial flag raising, a photo exhibition showcasing the Thinadhoo’s historical landscape, as well as an awarding ceremony held on the 23rd of August for the individuals who have made notable contributions to the island.