What is freedom and the feeling of freedom? How did we become free?

• ޙުސައިން ވިސާމު
• 31 ޖުލައި 2023

What is freedom, and what does it feel like to be free? How did the Maldives achieve independence? These questions are relevant, especially considering recent statements by the current Foreign Minister, Abdullah Shahid, suggesting that the British did not colonize the Maldives. It is important to explore the British presence in the Maldives and how it may have affected the notion of freedom for the people of Addu Atoll.

During their time in the Maldives, the British focused on establishing a military air base in Addu Atoll's Gan island. This raises the question of whether having a foreign military base infringes on a country's freedom. Although such bases can enhance security and bring economic benefits, they might also raise concerns about sovereignty and autonomy.

Accounts from those who experienced the British troops in Addu suggest that the people there experienced economic prosperity and independence. Nowadays, economic freedom is seen as an essential aspect of overall freedom. However, during the British presence, the economic prosperity and access to modern facilities in Addu Atoll led to calls for secession from the capital, Male', which was headed by Afeef Abdullah Didi. The British supported this secession both politically and economically.

The problem arose from the lack of adequate support and attention from the government in Male' towards the people of Addu Atoll. When the British eventually withdrew, Addu Atoll's economy collapsed, leading to food shortages and a significant migration of people to Male'. Consequently, Male' became congested, and to this day, a majority of the city's population consists of people from Addu Atoll. This situation had a negative impact on the entire Maldives for a prolonged period.

It is worth examining how the Maldives achieved independence and from whom. While Abdullah Shahid's statement challenges the idea of British colonization, it is essential to consider the historical context and whether the Maldives gained independence on 26 July 1965 from the British or earlier from another country

Drawing a parallel with Hong Kong, where the British peacefully developed the city and eventually handed it over to China. It also appears that the Maldivian government could have potentially resolved the matter without inflicting hardship upon the people of Addu Atoll.

In light of these points, it is crucial to open this topic for debate and further exploration to confirm the historical events surrounding the Maldives' independence and how it has shaped the nation's trajectory. The people of Addu Atoll, in particular, surely have lingering questions and seek clarification on this matter.