President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said the Maldives has been freed from political retribution and is making significant progress in addressing some of its most persistent national challenges, as he highlighted his administration’s achievements during the country’s 61st Independence Day celebrations.

Speaking at the official Independence Day ceremony held Saturday morning at the Maldives Centre for Social Education (MCSE), the President said his administration inherited a range of longstanding issues, including drug abuse, gang-related crime and the presence of undocumented expatriate workers.

He noted that these challenges had persisted for years despite efforts by previous governments.

According to the President, his administration adopted a policy-driven approach aimed at tackling these issues and has already begun to see positive results.

He expressed confidence that the country can permanently overcome these challenges through the continued implementation of government policies and the support of citizens, institutions, international partners and organizations.

The President also emphasized the role of democracy in preserving national independence and maintaining domestic stability.

He said his administration has expanded democratic freedoms and pointed to the political space available to opposition parties as evidence of its commitment to democratic principles.

The President further stated that the government has ended what he described as a culture of political retribution and violence, while also making progress in strengthening press freedom and freedom of expression within the framework of the Constitution and Islamic values.

Addressing judicial reform, President Dr. Muizzu said his administration has taken steps to eliminate administrative interference in the judiciary by enhancing both financial and institutional independence.

He announced that the Superior Court Complex is expected to be fully operational by the start of the 2029 judicial year, a development he said would further strengthen the independence of the judicial system.

The President also highlighted efforts to improve transparency across government institutions, stating that proactive disclosure of information has increased significantly under his administration.

He said measures are being introduced to combat corruption and reiterated that individuals found to have engaged in corrupt practices would be held accountable under the law.

On healthcare, President Dr. Muizzu said reforms are being implemented to improve access to medical services and reduce the need for Maldivians to seek treatment abroad.

He noted that the administration has undertaken major changes in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors as part of its broader effort to strengthen public services.

The President’s remarks formed part of the national celebrations marking the 61st anniversary of the Maldives’ independence, with the address focusing on governance reforms, institutional strengthening and the administration’s vision for the country’s future development.