Political Transitions, Modernization, State Building

chronological Account of the Birth of New Maldives.

Introduction

The Freedom of print media has been seen as the wider freedoms of expression and association that define liberal democracy. As it goes the truth can only emerge if individuals are free to disseminate it. Enjoying the newly found freedom of expression is too much of an opportunity to be missed.

This book presents a historical framework of the transitional period of Maldives from a Sultanate to Republic; particularly this book provides a chronological understanding of the Maldives political system during the period of colonialism, as a British protectorate. The book focuses on the contents provided by the Newspaper Times over a period of time when Maldives was put on world Map of Government and Politics. Prior to the period Maldives was a small country that had been ruled by centuries of Sultanism.

From the thirties to early seventies went through a change that can only be described as transition that helped Maldives to become a modern state. I feel that the resources I discovered in Times magazine is an unprecedented account of Maldivian political history and as a research student of Political science I should use this opportunities to create a valid historical documentary source of information for our present and future generations.

Prelude

Introduction of Maldives to the 20^th Century World

Sadly the Maldives was put on the map of news o f the world on August 13^th 1917 when a steamer wrecked in Maldives. Lloyd’s agents in Colombo gave the news that a British Steamer Ocean Bound from Port Said Calcutta stranded on a reef in Maldives. The reef was Kandafuri Island, in Northern Maldives. However since then references to Maldives is made occasionaly although not regularly.

Acknowledgment

I would like to acknowledge the importance given by Tmes Magazine about the events and affairs of Maldives though out the early 20^th century. We the Maldivian lacked the privilege of knowing our history through Documentary Source. Thus I would like to express my appreciation hear and felt  the preservation of this source can be useful  for the Future Generation of Maldives.

I would like to thank my daughter Rihula for helping me in every way she can to make this possible and creating this website as medium for me to help other Maldivian who share my interest. Finally I would like to thank all my children Nihula, Adam specially baby Sama the patience they have shown in my days and nights of abandoning them to come up with this document. I would like to thank my husband Sameers for been there for me to help in everything I do.

Discovery of Maldives by Agents of the New Order the New wave of power people and Politics.

The introduction of the Maldives to the new political order of the world was made with this article that appeared in the Times on May 25 1920.

The Maldives archipelagos comprise of series of islands built up by corall organisms from the deep sea a chain extending about 1200 miles north and southwest of India. The Maldive Archipelago is classified as semi – independent and has a distinct race of people, possessing a language of their own and an ancient civilisation. This group is about 600 miles long and comprises a series of ring – shaped coral reefs or atolls, with coconut land on their rims, which enclose shallow lagoons. The chain is double in the centre, where it attains a breadth of 100 miles. Here lays Male, the seat of an independent sultanate, supposed – according to native legends and records – to have been instituted by one of Abassi Caliphs of Baghdad. The language is related to ancient Singhalese, but the only written language is, as in most Mohammedans countries, Arabic, although, few, except in the southern atolls. What is the actual racial relationship of the people is  not possible to determine, because, being Mohammedans, they have introduced people from Arabia, from India and from Burma.

The history of the group of people is interesting, starting from the time of Plutolemy and of the Emperor Julian, who received ambassadors from the islanders who lived near Ceylon. The first real account was given by Ibni Batuta, who spent a year in the group about 1343. They were then Mohammedans, but dagoba-like mounds still exist in many islands and there are legends of Buddhism. In 1519, the Portuguese occupied Male for a short time and in 1554 built there a fort with bastions, which they mounted, with numerous cannon. The Sultan and chief people fled to Addu, but 10 years later the Portuguese were driven out, since when the group has retained its independent position, more or less depending upon the Power in occupation in Ceylon. This was regularized in 1645 when there began an annual embassy to Ceylon bearing presents, the embassy every year believing that it concluded an offensive and defensive alliance originally with the Dutch, but since 1796 with the British. The group was surveyed in 1853 by Captain Moresby, of the Indian Marine, and it was largely on the study of the charts he prepared that Charles Darwin proposed his famous theory of coral reef formation.

GOVERNMENT

The government is theoretically in the hands of an absolute Sultan, but it is in reality an oligarchy of certain families at Male. There are six Viziers and a council of the great nobles, to whom are assigned the control of most of the 200 islands known to be inhabited. The army comprises about 100 men, armed with spears and quarterstaffs, in addition to which the Sultan has about 500 servants. Each island has its own Ruler, Judge, and Mudim or priest and each pays tribute to the Sultan in dry fish, in coconuts or in cowries. Milled was formerly extensively grown for bread, but rice is now imports. Special castes are engaged in weaving mats of rushes and cloth of island cotton, and in carpentry, lacquer, carved stone, and silver work. There are excellent boat-builders, Chittagong, and Calcutta, with occasional voyages as far as the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. Mats and sails are made of the leaves of screw pines, and ropes of the fibre of coconut husks are usually used, the fibre from hibiscus bark forming similar cords. The rupee is current, but the ancient money consisted of silver coins like fish hooks. The quadrant is still used for navigation. The usual dress is a loincloth and turban, the woman also wearing a chemise of native cloth, generally highly embroided. The total population is about 80, 000. Domestic animals are not kept, and there is considerable infantile morality owing to imperfect feeding. Most diseases of civilised people are kept out, vessels only being allowed to communicate at Male, where a few Indian traders are allowed to live in a small reserve. There are no white residents.

The chief trade of the islands is in copra is coir – rope up to 12 inches round, and in dried fish used extensively by the natives of India in their curries. The imports are rice, cotton goods, and a few luxuries for the higher castes. The position of the group must be regarded as most satisfactory in that the people who have retained their own customs and laws and indeed their complete liberty. There is no slavery in the islands, no oppression of the people by the nobles, no crime and very little disease. There is also a sufficiency of food for all. Conditions at the present day are almost unchanged since the time of Ibni Batuta, and the people have never had forced upon them the doubtful benefits of civilization. While there is excellent anchorage in the different atolls, there is not one of these that could be effectively fortified as far as modern warfare is concerned. The only interference by the suzerain power is in respect of the sultanate, for periodical, but quite bloodless, revolutions occur, the new Sultan always asking recognition from Ceylon Government.

TROUBLE IN THE MALDIVES: REFORMS OPPOSED

One December 18^th 1933 Maldives political life in the 29^th century started. The introduction in the previous year of a new Constitution on the Maldive Islands, a British protectorate which sends an annual tribute to Ceylon, had led to an incident of revolt. The island ruled by Sultan Shamsudeen Iskander was reported to be living in continual fear of dethronement. The Crown Prince left Ceylon in the Maldivian Government steamship Barjora on December 22 with the intention of helping his father to restore order. He was accompanied by four ministers, but a hostile crowd at the capital, Male, opposed his landing, and three of the ministers preferred to return to Ceylon. The Prince, however, succeeded in joining his father, together with the Minister who was   forced to resign. The opposition appears to be mainly against the Cabinet’s zeal in introducing the reforms, and the three Ministers who have returned to Ceylon refuse to come back until they are guaranteed justice at the people’s hands.

The old absolute monarchy in the islands was abolished a year earlier; the new Constitution was being based on the Ceylonese experimental Constitution. The only communication of the island with the outside world then was a fishing fleet of sailing vessels, and the Barjora, which makes intermittent voyages to Ceylon. The Maldives lie 400 miles south-west of Ceylon and have about 70 000 inheritance who speak a dialect akin to old Sinhalese and have been Moslems for nearly eight centuries.

TRIALS OF A SULTAN

Trouble has been brewing throughout the year 1933 in the Maldive Islands, still a   British Protectorate about 400 miles south-west of Ceylon. Political agitation has reached such a state that the Sultan, Shamsuddin III, is said to be living in continual fear of being dethroned. Three of the seven ministers nominated by the Sultan under the new Constitution have been forced to flee the country.

The state of affairs in the Maldives is not unlike that which existed in Afghanistan when the then King Amanullah incurred the displeasure of his people, to whom he introduced reforms for which they were unprepared. On December 22, 1932, the Sultan promulgated the new Constitution to establish representative Government, thus relinquishing his rights as an absolute monarch. Reading between the lines, it was evident that the Sultan’s hands were forced by members of the nobility, who wished to play a part in controlling the country.

Even with the changes brought about a year earlier the Maldives monarchy still had an unusual basis. The Sultanate had always been elective in principle, but his new constitution renders it hereditary and constitutional as well as elective. An essential qualification for the Sultanate was that the ruler must be a son of the last reigning Sultan or a grandson in the male line of a Sultan descended from Sultan Ghazi Hasan Izzuddin bin Al Wazir Muhammed Famu Deri Manikufanu of Hura.

ELECTING OF A RULER

The rulers laid down in the constitution for the election of a ruler are as following. The council of ministers, members of the legislative council, the nobles, the learned, and the leaders of Male’ should assemble at the palace and hold a special meeting for the purpose of electing a ruler. After deliberating as to the fitness of the candidates, the sense of the meeting should be taken. When two thirds of the members agree upon a suitable candidate, people of other islands then residing at Male and in the Harbour should be summoned by beating of drums. The Council of Ministers should then inform those who have been summoned as to the decision arrived at by the special meeting, and when the people signify their approval of the candidate selected by the special meeting, and the approved candidate should be declared elected as ruler. Under the new Constitution a Cabinet of seven Ministers was nominated by the Sultan and a legislative Council of 28 members was also, in the first instance nominated by the Ruler. It was proposed to summon a People’s Assembly once a year for the purpose of advising and criticizing the Council of Ministers and the Legislative Council. It was provided that the People’s Assembly should consist of 47 elected members, four members for each of the larger atolls and two members for each of the smaller atolls. It was proposed that at the end of five years the People’s Assembly should elect 21 members for the Legislative Council the other seven being nominated by the Sultan.

The full democratic force of the constitution was not intended to take effect for five years, at the end of which time it was provided that the Sultan should appoint a member of the Legislative Council as Prime Minister, who in turn would select the other Ministers. While the new Constitution was democratic in its conception, the members of the Council of Ministers and of the Legislative Council, as first constituted, were each and all nominees of the Sultan.

AN ACTIVE COUNCIL

The new cabinet and the Legislative Council have proved zealous, as was seen in their attempts to establish a steamship service between Ceylon and the Maldives and to install a wireless station to break down the isolation of the kingdom. The two bodies had been no less active in internal administration, 35 Bills and legislative enactments having been passed in the first year. Many of the reforms which had not been thrust upon the people had not, however, proved popular. New taxation aroused much resentment and a number of other measures intensified the disaffection. Three of the ministers with their staffs were obliged to flee the country and preceded to Ceylon to “await the pleasure of the Sultan”.

After a brief stay in Colombo these three Ministers – Mr. Ahamed Kamal Didi, Minister of Home Affairs, Hussein Salahudeen, Minister of Justice, and Mr. Ibrahim Didi, Minister of Health, and their staffs – decided to return to the Maldives, taking with them as mediator Prince Hessian Izzuddin, the only son of the Sultan, who had been receiving his education there. The steamer Barjora had been chartered for the purpose and arrived at Male the island capital of the Maldives on December 20. The exiled Ministers proposed to submit a scheme to the Sultan introducing important modifications in the Constitution and abrogating certain rules and regulations which had not appealed to the peculiarly conservative-minded Maldivian and had been the cause of the trouble. The presence of a hostile crowd on the Maiden prevented the Sultan from meeting his son on board ship, but he apparently rejected the Prime Minister’s suggestion to call out the military and police to disperse the mob. 

A request from the Sultan was communicated to the three banished Ministers to withdraw to certain distant islands, boats having been placed outside the harbour to take them to exile. It was proposed that each Minister should receive a pension of Rs. 100 (£7 10s) a month, each Deputy Minister RS.50 and each Under-Secretary Rs.30. Prince Izzuddin also refused to land and laid down a condition that the Ministers should be pardoned and reinstated, or failing that, that they should be allowed to return to Colombo in Barjora. The third condition was accepted, and on December 22, a year to a day after the promulgation of the new Constitution, Prince Izz-ud-din was ashore, where he had a cold reception from the people. The Barjora with the three Ministers and their stands immediately set sail for Colombo to await developments. The Maldives consist of some 2000 islands – a score or more of atolls divided for revenue purposes into 13 grouped. The number of inhabited islands is 217, with a total population of just under 80 000. The Maldivian Army numbers about 700. The Navy consists of 11 ships, none of any size and armed very indifferently.

Ibni Batuta According to a Maldivian

Referring to an article that appeared in the times, a Maldivian responded. Stating an article on the Maldive Islands reminds me of that great Moslem explorer Ibni Batuta, who first visited them in the middle of the fourteenth century. He refers to them as “one of the wonders of the world and numbering two thousand islands in all.” He was warmly welcomed by the Queen who appointed him Chief Kazi, and settled down, marrying four wives, with the remark that “it is easy to get married in these islands”. However, this uxorious existence did not last. He made himself unpopular by whipping absentees from prayers; and still more so by attempting to force the women to wear clothes. Finally, the Vizier whose daughter he had married turned against him, and so he resumed hid wanderings to the great benefits of students of geography.

NEW AGREEMENT WITH THE MALDIVES: OFFICIAL VISIT TO MALE.

On April  24^th 1948 it was reported that a new agreement regulating the relationship between the British Government of the Maldives (in the Indian Ocean, near Ceylon) was signed  when the United Kingdom Representative in Ceylon, and Sir Henry Moore, Governor  General of Ceylon, visited Male, the capital of the Maldives, in H.M.S. Norfolk.

Until Ceylon received Dominion status the Maldives, a protectorate of Great Britain, paid an annual tribute to the Governor of Ceylon, Majesty’s Government. The time-honoured took place for the last time was on November 1947. His highness Amir Abdul Majid Didi, the Sultan of the Maldives, who had been in Colombo negotiating the terms of the new treaty with the United Kingdom, returned to Male on April 1. During Sir Henry Moore’s absence from Ceylon Sir John Harvard, the Chief Justice, was acting as Governor-General.

BRITAIN AND THE MALDIVES

On April 1948 marked another occasion in the Small Island Country Maldives. The agreement was signed with much ceremony at Male between the British Government and the Government of the Maldive Islands was made necessary by the altered status of the Ceylon. The connection between the Maldives and Ceylon dated from the middle of the 17^th century, when the Sultan of the Maldives first paid tribute to the Sinhalese ruling house and claimed its protection against the raids of pirates from the Malabar Coast of India. After Ceylon came under British rule the obligation of protection was assumed by Britain, and the ancient tribute was paid to the Governor of Ceylon as His Majesty’s’ representative. Ceylon becoming independent become had created paths for Maldives and Britain. The opportunity had been taken to place the relations between Britain and the Maldive Islands upon a more direct basis, and the tribute had been abolished.

The people of the Maldives were described as a hardy raced of mixed ancestry with a strong seafaring tradition. From time to time they had fought hard to maintain their independence; and, although hey had welcomed the protection they had received from Ceylon and Britain, they were always attached to their own institutions. Many of the men earn their living as lascars in British vessels, and in both world wars won an enviable reputation for steadfast gallantry. The experience of the world they had gained and the position of their homeland directly in the track of east bound shipping, accounted for the general prosperity which the inhabitants of the Maldives enjoyed. They had been fortunate also in their rulers. The old absolute form of government was replaced in 1932 by a People’s Assembly and a Cabinet; and the present Sultan, His Highness Amir Abdul Majeed Didi, served himself as Prime Minister before he ascended the throne. The establishment of direct relations between the Maldive Islands and Britain in no way weaken the old friendship with Ceylon; and on the Sultan’s invitation, the Governor-General of Ceylon had accompanied the British High Commissioner to Male on the occasion of the formal conclusion of the new agreement.

CHANGE OF STATUS IN THE MALDIVES: SULTANATE TO REPUBLIC

Maldives would make its political history on January 1^st  1953 by converting its political status from a long established Sultanate to a Republic. By embracing a modern democratic form of status the country would only develop and flourish. The Maldives, a number of low-lying coral islands some 400 miles off the west coast of Ceylon, was to  be transformed with due ceremonial from a Sultanate to a Republic on January 1. Sir Cecil Seyers, the British High Commissioner in Ceylon, would sign a new agreement with the Republic of the Maldives. The islands would remain under the protection of the British Government.

Abdul Majid Didi, the Sultan designated, was elected in 1945 (for the office is not hereditary), but did not assume the Sultanate because of ill-health. Meanwhile the Government was carried on by a council of regency under the presidency of Amir Amin Didi, who would have succeeded anyway if Maldives stayed a Sultanate. But for the Maldives Amin Didi with colourful background of Western Education and knowledge of the world had therefore decided to change their form of government to that of a republic, with Amir Amin Didi as the first President. Under the revised constitution of 1932 there was a People’s Assembly constituting of 33 members and a Prime Minister, who selects three colleagues to form his Cabinet. These numbers would seem adequate for a population of 93,000. Male, the capital, on King’s Island, had 8000 inhabitants. Fishing was the main industry, and much trade was done with Ceylon.

New Republic Status of the Maldives: Treaty Signed

The new Political Status of Maldives Sir Cecli Sayers, the British High Commissioner in Ceylon, on the  afternoon of January 1^st 1953  signed a treaty at Male, the capital of Maldives, recognizing the new status of the islands as a Republic.

It was a colourful ceremony, attended by the captain and ship’s company of H.M.S. Ceylon commander and company of the Ceylon naval vessel H.M.S Vijaya, Major Jayawickrama Parliamentary Secretary in the Ceylon Ministry of Defence and External Affairs, Lady Syers, Air Commodore Cox, and other distinguished visitors.

A message from Mr. Senanayake, the Prime Minister of Ceylon, said that Ceylon and the Maldive Islands had had close associations for many years, and they looked forward to seeing the new Republic take her place in the family of free nations. Amir Amin Didi President of his new Republic replied that the associations between the two countries had always been cordial and affectionate.

Hundreds of unveiled Maldivian woman watched a football match on New Year’s Eve between a team drawn from H.M.S. Ceylon and a Maldivian team. The women, in collared costumes – pink, purple, blue and green – lined one side of the ground and followed the game with enthusiasm.

RESIGNATION OF FIRST PRESIDENT

On  4^th September 1953 only 9 months after the establishment of the first Republic trouble brewed in the Maldives. The resignation of Amin Didi, the first president and prime minister of the Maldives, had been effected under pressure, according to reports received in Colombo, and there was no evidence to suggest a coup d’Etat. Amin Didi was undergoing treatment for high blood pressure in Madras when he was summoned back. He cam to Colombo and flew home to Male, the capital of the Maldives, in a British aircraft. The flight was arranged for him by the British High Commissioner in Ceylon. Amin Didi’s resignation was followed on the same day by the resignation of Hilmy Didi, the representative of the Government of the Maldives in Ceylon, who said that he could not discharge his duties without the assistance of Amin Didi. He added that, when he was appointed by his Government 18 months earlier, he had made it clear to the Cabinet that he would accept office only if the President would advise him on all problems connected with foreign relations. He said: “I had been kept completely in the dark about all developments in Male”. All I know was that Amin Didi has resigned.

Those that came to power were Ibrahim Mohammed Didi, the deputy President, and Ibrahim Ali Didi. There was no confirmation of a rumour that circulated in Colombo on the day that Amin Did was under arrest. His wife and school aged daughter were in Colombo. An emissary from the new Government was expected to arrive in Srilanka within few days. The Government meanwhile requested a Colombo business house which had trade connections with the islands to look after its interests. The Maldive Islands produced no cereals and were largely dependent on the fishing industry, and had been passing through a serious food crisis. Three months prior to, the Government asked Ceylon for help, and 7,000 bags of flour were sent to Male.

The Maldive Islands lie 400 miles south west of Ceylon; 200 islands were inhabited by more than 93000 people. The Maldives were declared a Republic on January 1 when Amin Didi became the first president and Prime minister. The President’s family had been the ruling family of the Maldives for several centuries and it was his decision to make the country Republic..

The First President of the First Republic in Custody

On 9^th September the first schooner to leave the Maldive Islands since the deposition of Amin Didi, President and Prime Minister of the islands, arrived in Colombo with letters to Maldivian residents in Colombo and the trade representative. The passengers included two merchants. It was confirmed that Amin Didi was in custody in Dhoonidoo, an unpopulated island about one mile from Male, the capital of the Maldives, where there was a bungalow built during the war fro the Royal Air Force by the Maldivian Government. It was stated that Amin Didi was accused of profiteering in food supplied.

Power was  in the hands of Ibrahim Mohamed Didi, cousin of Amin and former deputy President, and  Ibrahim Ali Didi, former Minister without Portfolio. The food situation continued to be acute. Hilmy Didi, the Maldivian Government representative in Colombo, who had resigned stated that he had done his best to get adequate food supplies to the islands. Some months earlier, 70000 bags of flour were sent. Smaller cargoes were sent by sailing vessels. Two weeks to before he sent coasting vessel under charter by the Ceylon Co-operative Wholesale establishment. Another schooner from the Maldives was expected in Colombo during the weekend, bringing the new Maldivian Government representative to succeed Hilmy Didi. Meanwhile, Amin Didi’s wife and daughter are in Colombo awaiting news. The Maldive islands lie 400 miles south east of Ceylon, a group of 12 coral atolls richly planted with coconut palms with a total area of 115 square miles. The Maldives became a republic this year and are under British protection. The population recorded till the date standed at 93 0000.

How President Amins’ Death was explained by the Government to the Media.

On January 19^th  1954 the death of the First President was announced. The Government of the Maldive Islands announced through its representative in Colombo. The death early in the morning of Amir Amin Didi, the deposed first President and Prime Minister of the Republic that was inaugurated on January 1 in 1953 only a year earlier. He was only 46 and though he was ailing his death appears to have been at least due to a misadventure.

Since the overthrow of his Government in August, the Amir had been confined to Doonidu, an island of the Maldive group. The official statement only said that on December 31, with assistance of two persons opposed to the present Government – Ibrahim Hilmy Did and Shamshudeen Hilmy evaded the security guard on Doonidu and crossed to the Male Island, the seat of Government. This news spread rapidly among the populace and a disturbance of the peace followed in the course of which Amir Amin Didi and his associates, as well as several Government officials, were injured. He and 25 of his followers were rounded up and distributed in custody among various islands. The shock of the incident affected Amin Didi who was suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes, and he died on the island of Vihamanafuri. A day of public mourning had been declared in the Maldive islands and a  state funeral was being arranged.

MALDIVES AGAIN CONVERTED TO A SULTANATE: NEW RULER CHOSEN

The Government of the Maldive Islands announced  through its representative in Colombo that a Maldivian National Assembly meeting at Male, the capital on February 22 1954 decided by an overwhelming majority to restore the sultanate. The assembly elected Amir Mohamed Farid Didi as Maldivian Sultan designate, and preparations for his installation were being made.

For over 800 years the Maldive Islands were a sultanate. In January 1953 a year before , the islands were proclaimed a Republic when the late Amin Didi, then Prime Minister, was elected first President. The Sultan designate, Amir Mohamed Farid Didi who was in his late fifties was the eldest son of the late Sultan designates, Amir Abdul Majid Didi who died in Colombo in 1948. Amir Abdul Majid Didi was chosen Sultan designate on the resignation of Prince Hassan Nuruddin over seven years before but was not able to assume the sultanate because of ill-health, and the sultanate then lapsed.

ELDER STATESMAN

The new Sultan designate was one of the elder statesmen of the Maldives. He was Prime Minister during the sultanate of Prince Nuruddin and resigned when the Prince resigned. The news of the Assembly’s decision and of the choice of Amir Mohamed Farid Didi as Sultan designate was the occasion for a demonstration of popular approval in Male and quickly spread to the rest of the islands, where it was warmly welcomed. The installation of the Sultan designate was to take place on March 7 1954. He would then nominate his Prime Minister who would form a government.

MALDIVES AIRFIELD TO BE RE-ESTABLISHED: ROUTE INDEPENDENT OF INDIA AND CEYLON

The commonwealth Relations Office last night made an announcement:-The United Kingdom and Maldivian Governments have consulted in accordance with the terms of article 4 of the Government and the Maldivian Government of January 1, 1953. As a result of this consultation the United Kingdom Government will re-establish and operate the airfield in Addu Atoll as a staging post. The arrangement referred to gives Britain the right to establish and maintain in the Maldive Islands such facilities for British forces as she may decide, after consultation with the Maldivian Government, are required for the defence of the Maldive Islands or for any part of the Commonwealth. The Maldive Islands are an independent sultanate with a population of about 93000.

UNDETERMINED NUMBER

There are 2000 or more islands the exact number has never been determined of which about 200 are inhabited, and they lay 500 miles south-west of Ceylon. They have been under British protection since 1887.

The present Prime Minister of the Maldives is Ibrahim Ali Didi, who is also the only doctor on the islands. In 1953, the Sultanate was abolished and the Maldives became a republic, but the first President was overthrown nine months later and the Sultanate restored in February, 1954.

The airfield which is to be re-established in Addu Atoll, a group of 27 islands, is on the island of Gan, which is about a mile and three quarters long and three-quarters of a mile wide. The airfields were built during the war, and it was  largely overgrown with vegetation. The population of Gan Island is about 500. The Air Ministry made a survey of the island in 1952 and concluded that the construction of a modern airfield there was a practicable proposition. A commonwealth relations office spokesman said last night that the expected entry into R.A.F service of long-range aircraft such as the Britannia would make practicable a shorter, direct route from Britain to Australia, New Zeland, and the Far East by flying directly across the Indian Ocean.

IDEAL ROUTE

The development by the Royal Australian Air Force of a major airfield on the Cocos Islands had already contributed to making this “great circle” flying route practicable. The weather, made a route across the centre of the Indian Ocean ideal for the aircraft now coming into service. He said there was no intention of developing a base on the Gan airfield, which would be used purely as a staging and refuelling post. A neighbouring island, Hithadoo, would be used for erecting aerials for communications. It was expected that in due course a small party of R.A.F men would be stationed on Gan Island to service and maintain aircraft.

The decision to re-establish the airfield in the Maldives is the culmination if months of doubt about the future facilities at the bases Britain at present has in Ceylon – the R.A.F. station at Katunayake and the Royal Naval yard at Trincomalce – the command of which is due to be handed over to Ceylon this year. The object is to safeguard British air communications with Australia, New Zeeland, and her territories in the Far East.

EXISTING ROUTES

At present British air communications with the Far East depend entirely on the good will of two Commonwealth countries, India and Ceylon, both of which have been demonstrated their determination to remain neutral in events which do not directly concern them. The only two existing air routes from the farthest points in the Middle East – Bahrain. Aden, and Masira – to the nearest point in the Far East Penang are via India or Ceylon. Unless British aircraft can fly over and re-guel in these countries, the air link with Austalasia and the Far East is severed.

In India Britain has staging rights at Dum Dum (Calcutta) but the agreement has to be negotiated annually, and there are restrictions on the number of troops who can be staged there each year. With these restrictions, it would be impossible in an emergency to fly reinforcements to the Far East by way of India.

In Pakistan the R.A.F staging post at Mauriper was abandoned at the end of 1956 to enable the Pakistan Air Force to have full use of the airfield. It has been agreed that the R.A.F may instead use Karachi civil airport to maintain and service aircraft and for handling personnel in transit. These facilities in Pakistan however, are purely complementary to the facilities in India, because the journey from Pakistan to the Far East involves flying over and except for aircraft with the range of the Britannia, refuelling in India.

In Ceylon Kaktunayake, a first class airfield with excellent wireless facilities, is a staging post where aircraft can be refuelled and repaired. All casualty evacuations by way of Katunayake, where there is also an air-sea rescue service. The prime minister of Ceylon, Mr. Bandaranaike, has said that facilities in Ceylon cannot be granted indefinitely to Britain.

There are only two conceivable alternatives to the use of India and Ceylon as links in the air chain between Britain and the Far East. The first is a westward air link with the Far East via North America. This has been rejected because of the dollars, distance, and depressions, as the R.A.F put it.

The alternative, which the British Government are now adopting, is the setting up of a new staging post in the Indian Ocean, on the Maldive Islands. The building of an airfield there will enable aircraft to fly from the Middle East to the Far East without flying over or refuelling in any other country. The distance from the Maldives to Penang is considerably longer than that from Ceylon or Dum Dum, but it can be covered by existing aircraft such as the Hastings and the Comet, which will still be in service several years hence when the Maldives staging post is ready.

AFRICAN POSSIBILITIES:

The Maldive Islands are also most conveniently situated to act as a link in any new air chain that may be formed across Africa. Alternative air routes across Africa are being considered because of the potential barriers to air traffic that exist in the Middle East. The main air route of the future to Australia might thus be via Mombassa, the Maldives, and the Cocos Islands. The future of the British bases in Ceylon has been in doubt for the past year. At the Commonwealth Prime Ministers conference in London in July it was agreed that command of the Royal Naval yard at Trincomalee and the R.A.F. station at Katunayake should be banded over to Ceylon, that the Ceylon Government would continue to give Britain facilities for communications, movements, and storage there and that Britain would help to expand and train the Ceylon defence forces.

Early in December, however, Mr. Bandaranaike said after visiting London that he had informed the British Government that the continuation of these facilities indefinitely would be impossible in view of his Government’s foreign policy. If Britain were involved, as was the case in Egypt, Britain would be denied the facilities when she most needed them. Therefore, the facilities should cease altogether on an agreed date.

BRTISH MOVE FROM SRILANKA TO THE MALDIVES

On January 4^th 1957 it was announced that 3^rd January Friday night that Britain was to re-establish the wartime airfield in the Maldive Islands as a staging post. This marked another chapter in the troubled history of the overseas bases from which no nation with widespread possessions or commitments was immune. The attitude of two members of the Commonwealth, India and Ceylon, towards granting facilities to Britain to maintain British military air routes to Australia, New Zealand, and the Far East had to be respected; however many other members regretted such neutrality. Given Mr. Bandaranaike determination to end within the next few years British facilities at Trincomalee and Kataunayake, at no matter what cost to Ceylon’s economy, further efforts to make him change his mind would have been useless. Alternatives had to be sought. How far can a staging post in the Maldives, when it was completed, replace the facilities British had so long enjoyed in Ceylon. The  Commander in Chief East Indies was the hundredth British naval commander to occupy the headquarters in Ceylon. The British would find it hard to replace the Royal Naval Yard at Trincomalee, where the excellent storage facilities, particularly for fuel, would virtually have to be written off. The loss was not vital, in the sense that the Navy could not operate without Trincomalee. Warships had the range, which aircraft lacked, to move between the Middle East and the Far East without refuelling in the Indian Ocean. But the loss of a midway supply base was a heavy blow because it was bound to make the voyage more difficult administratively, more expensive, and much less pleasant for the ships’ companies who had for so long enjoyed shore leave in Ceylon. In the air the picture was brighter. An R.A.F staging post in the Maldives should give all the advantages Britain had in Ceylon and it could even be developed into a civil station one day. The essential question was whether it was possible to establish a post in the Indian Ocean that  sooner or later would go the way of Katunayake. There were good economic reasons for optimism – even though economics had not stood in Mr. Bandaranaike way. The building and maintenance of an airfield in the Maldives would bring relative prosperity to an impoverished chain of coral islands. Men serving at the post would help to reduce the dependence of the island’s fishing industry on the depressed market of Ceylon. And there were perhaps two other stabilising factors. First, it could be assume presumably been granted a firm lease of the land in the Maldives, whereas in Ceylon Britain were always at the mercy of the landlord because most of Trincomalee and Katunayake are built on land requisitioned during the war. Second, the island chosen had a population of only 500. It was difficult to imagine either extreme nationalism or a scrupulous addiction in neutrality arising seriously in the Maldives over the occupation of one island out of the thousands in the group which man has not yet definitively numbered.

Maldives Airfield as a staging post

An agreement to re-establish the wartime airfield in the Maldive Islands as a staging post. It had been announced by the Commonwealth Relations Office. The old R.A.F camp on an island in the Addu Atoll group known as Gan. The island is far from Male, the capital on King’s island. The Maldive islands are about 500 miles south west of Ceylon and Addu was the most Southern Atoll of the country.

CEYLONS’ CLAIM OVER MALDIVES.

When Mr. Bandaranaike, the Ceylon Prime Minister, said in the House of Representatives on Tuesday March 7^th 1957 that he was thinking of taking Ceylon’s claim to the Maldive Islands, the House greeted to the statement with laughter and it was assumed that he was joking. At his weekly Press conference however, Mr. Bandaranaike discussed the matter quite seriously. In the House on Tuesday the communist member for Colombo central, Mr. Pieter Keuneman, recalled that the British Government proposed to establish a base in the Maldive Islands on the conclusion of the arrangements to evacuate the bases at Trincomalee and Kataunayake. It was, he said, a matter of grave concern to Ceylon particularly in view of the existence of S.E.A.T.O and the fact that the United Kingdom was an active member of that organisation. Mr. Keuneman asked the Prime Minister whether he had raised, or intended to raise, the matter with the British Government, and whether he was considering raising it with the Banding Powers.

Mr. Bandaranaike said he had been informed by the British Government f the step they were taking. He did not feel there was any particular objection he could raise as the Maldivian Government had agreed to the proposal, though he felt it would be easier for the transfer of the bases from Ceylon if Brian had found sites elsewhere. He did not think there was any danger to Ceylon/ India which had also been informed of the move, had not objected either. To this he added: “I was thinking of staking my claim to the Maldive Islands. We have quite a good claim, as it was once a dependency of ours”. The house greeted this with laughter. Mr. Bandaranaike then said: he was quite serious about it. I shall take that up quietly in due course”. This, too, was greeted with laughter.

PAYMENT OF TRIBUTE

At his press conference, discussing the matter in all seriousness, the Prime Minister said he was not thinking in terms of colonial or imperialist expansion, but it would be desirable to establish closer and friendlier relations between Ceylon and the Maldive Islands then existed at present. The greater part of Maldivian trade was with Ceylon.

It may be noted that the “island” is defined in the Ceylon Constitution Order in Council as “The island of Ceylon and the dependencies thereof.” But section 1 (ii) pf the order states: “Nothing in this order shall extend to the Maldive Island”. 

R.A.F. STAGING POST IN MALDIVES

On February 1958 it was stated that the three man commission from the Maldive Islands, went to Srilanka  to discuss with the United Kingdom High Commission in Colombo problems connected with the Royal Air Force staging post on Gan Island. Friday just before they left for the Maldives, that the Maldivian Government did not view the establishment of the base from a political angle.

Problems  one of them the resettlement of 800 persons who inhabited Gan Island were considered in the context of Maldivian interest and of relations between the Maldives and Britain, which had always been extremely cordial and friendly. They described the talks that they had with the United Kingdom High Commission here as “satisfactory”. They were satisfied, they said with the assurance given by the United Kingdom High Commissioner on behalf of her Majesty’s Government that compensation would be paid to those who would be affected by the establishment of a base on Gan. The commissioner added: “We have been a British Protectorate since the treaty of 1887 was signed, and our relations have been mutually beneficial. Therefore, there is no reason for us to break away from the existing partnership.

WORK ON R.A.F BASE IN MALDIVES

The Government of Ceylon has decided that no Ceylonese should be allowed to work on the construction of a Royal Air Force base on Gan Island in the Maldives, because it disapproved of the policy of the establishment of foreign bases on Asian soil. The fact that Ceylonese  was probably employed on such work there was brought to the Government’s notice  when the body of a Ceylonese labourer who was killed in an accident on Gan was flown to Ceylon for burial. It was understood that the Government has asked the United Kingdom High Commission here for a full report of the circumstances in which the man met his death. 

Delays in Building the Air Base

The making of an airbase was further delayed and it the Britain protested claiming that the government is obstructing their course of action. Mr. A. F Morley the United Kingdom High Commissioner in Colombo send a letter to the Prime Minister from H.M.S Gambia anchored in Male’ harbour, stating that he was specifically authorised to discuss with him a programme of future economic aid. The United kingdom will only carry out such a programme(economic aid) until the Maldivian government show willingness and play proper their proper part in removing obstacles placed in the of completion of the work at Gan.

A royal air force staging post is being built on Gan Island to take the place of Katunayake, in Srilanka. The airbase and its completion were strategically important for the British. As it provides the British air travel and liaisons with Australia, New Zealand and territories in the Far East.

Mr Morley’s letter stated that the Government of United Kingdom had entered into costly commitments for the construction of the airfield relaying on the pledged word of the Maldivian government. Maldivian government argument was that the pledge was given by the former government and the government governing the country had not ratified the agreement, although a draft for it was drawn up.

Mr Morley letter also acknowledged that communication with government has revealed that in the parliament of Maldives complaints were received about the failure to fulfil promises of economic assistance. However the British claimed that in the form of economic assistance the government of Britain presented a ship to the Maldives to commute between Colombo and Maldives. The fact quite a few ships were submitted to choose a satisfactory one by the government of Maldives. This according to Morley has costed the British government one million rupees. The United Kingdom government according to a subsequent letter by Mr Morley’s told the Maldivian government that they are willing to pay 10,000 pounds immediately. In this accord an agreement was signed and this agreement also indicated that the UK government is willing to shorten the lease of Gan from 100 years to 50 years.

Problem with Air Base

The agreement to set up an R.A.F staging post on the island of Gan has run into difficult ties only a year after it was signed. For three months work has delayed then the British has to stop work pending further discussions in the parliament. The Maldives government authority in Colombo issued a statement which the British claimed threw a little more light on the crises. The statement read that in spite of the agreement welcomed by the Maldivian government at the time and in spite of the work that had gone for three months, there is a talk of an occupation by the British force without the consent of the people of Maldives. It was claimed by British personals as high flown stuff from the Maldivian who stand not to loose but benefit from the Royal Air force Use of Gann.

The British questioned the fact why the statement in Colombo was given by the Minister of Education, and expresses concern over this as an attempt by the government to revoke the agreement. However it was clear that the problem arose from disagreements and difference of opinion within and among the officials of the Maldives government. A new Ministry to deal with the British relations was set up in December of the previous year clearly December 1956 and the trouble began with the establishment of the new Ministry. British held on the stance that although no specific moves to revoke the agreement was made by the Maldivian authorities and after agreeing to provide a ship for the Colombo run and adding other promises of economic aid, that such advances  and gestures of good will stop until the Prime Minister is prepared to ratify the agreement. The British argument was that the prime Minister only prepared to ratify the agreement after driving as hard a bargain as he could, But as he was prepared to ratify, and attempts by other members of his government to end the agreement  put question mark to the whole issue.

Problems with the Agreement between UK and Maldives

April Second to kick start he project in Gan Britain cited the 1956 agreement. It was known fact that Maldivian government signed an agreement in 1956 and it was in accordance that R.A.F staging post in Addu Atoll started. The High Commission of United Kingdom issued a press statement following the statement made bye the Maldivian Education Minister in Colombo. This statement referred to the British work in Gan to form an airbase as the occupation of Addu Atoll by British forces without the consent of the people of Maldives.

The British High Commission statement stated that the 1956 agreement was in turn based on an agreement renewed in 1953 which gave the United Kingdom the right to establish and maintain facilities in the Maldives, facilities of her Majesties forces. In this agreement the Maldivian government has undertaken to resettle the villagers of Gan on another island at the expense of the United Kingdom government.

It was obvious while construction proceeded; discussion began of a more detailed agreement setting out for avoidance of misunderstanding, the rights and obligations of the two governments. In December 1956 when the new government came into office in the Maldives and called in question the various arrangements made by their predecessors. Furthermore they also began a new round of discussion with the United Kingdom Government of the detailed arrangements.

The visit to Male’ by H.M.S Gambia was stated as an ordinary naval occasion of which the High Commissioner took advantage to make his first call on the Sultan and his official members. However the opportunity was taken to discuss the detailed agreement and other matters of mutual concern. These discussions could not be concluded by the time H.M.S Gambia had to leave. However arrangements were made then by leaving Mr. East the high Commissioner’s secretary at Male’ Maldives and by the return of the High Commissioner at a later date to continue the excommunication. A royal navy supply ship H.M.S Owen was sent and stationed in Male’ claiming to provide accommodation for the for the high commission staff and others.

Maldives against Employment of Maldivian in Gan

On April 3 1958 a letter to the Times was written by Dodwell Cooreay the information officer in the UK high commission of Colombo.  This indicated although Maldivian face hardship labour force in the work of construction of the airbase involved labourers from Ceylon. While Ceylonese were employed as labourers Maldivian found occasional employment in areas other than construction. An incident occurred where a Srilankan labourer was murdered while working in Gan and it was flown over and handed for burial. It also indicated that although the letter indicated that the circumstances of his death were being investigated by all the authorities concerned further information about the incident was not officially made available.

Deadlock Situation between United Kingdom and Maldive

Following the statement by the High Commission regarding delays, on the 5^th of April 1958 new proposals were made by the Maldives government and it questioned Britain’s pledge to economic aid. Mr Kenneth East of the United Kingdom High Commission in Colombo immediately left for London taking the proposals. The proposals were despatched immediately with the hopes to end the deadlock in the negotiations over the construction in Gan referred as Indian Ocean Staging post of R.A.F. The proposals were amended to the draft agreement between the two governments and also amendments to the treaty of 1887, by which Maldives became a British protectorate and came under the British protection were of the contents of the proposals.

The Maldives government has asked that the terms of economic aid should be defined specifically in the draft agreement. It also wanted the 1887 treaty to be amended to give Maldivian freedom to negotiate direct with other countries for the establishment of cultural and economic relations.

It also stated that the recent offer of 10,000 pounds made by the High Commissioner Mr. .F. Morley to e paid as soon  as he Draft agreement Between the British and the Maldives government has made no impression whatsoever on the Maldivian parliament. Nor did the offer to shorten the lease of Gan from 100 years to 5o years made any impression of the parliament. The High Commissioner Morley is said to have offered a programme of economic aid by the Britain’s over a period of five years. The Maldives answer to this economic pledge was whatever economic aid Britain wished to give to the Maldivian people should be offered irrespective of the ongoing negotiations.

A consensus Between the British and the Maldivian Government

On July 12^th 1956 reports from Colombo High Commission indicated that an agreement has been reached on the construction of the Air Base. The detailed agreement requested by the new government and provided by the British seems to be the key to solving the problem. Morley the High Commissioner made it clear to the Maldivian Government that the British government are willing to provide resources and infra structure needed to develop the island of Feydhoo for people removed from Gan for the purpose of the airbase. They would not interfere the use of areas surrounding Gan by the Maldivian fisherman and their will be no restriction on the areas of fishing, by the previous islanders of Gan. Furthermore the British strongly indicated that the facilitates allowed to British forces and any future establishments in that respect would only be used in Defence of the Maldives or of the Commonwealth.

Hopes and Wishes for Independence

On Monday January 1959 a ministerial delegation of six was send from Maldives to Colombo to discuss with A.F. Morley the High Commissioner to discuss the draft agreement drawn up in 1957 in Addu atoll (280 miles away from the capital Male,).

Mr Ahmed Zaki the Maldivian government representative in Colombo that he made a visit to Gan island on December 30^th in a fact finding mission about the condition of the Island on the eve of talks between the governments.

The Maldivian government according to zaki has tried to prevent Maldivian working in Gan, which according to the Maldivian government is an attempt not to employ Maldivian unskilled labour in the Gan project until the agreement is signed. It was claimed by the government that the few Maldivian who worked in Gan with R.A.F are treated with traditional British generosity which the government does not appreciate. The government requested to let go of the people employed in the British project so that can get involved in traditional Maldivian occupations. To allow them to return to these occupations the British need to let the people go as some Maldivian specially those who were employed has taken exceptions to the stance and attitudes of the government . In fact according to Maldives Representative Zaki in his visit those Maldivian demonstrated against Zaki during his visit and thanked the British R.A.F for protecting him from the demonstrators.

Further explaining the no employment policy the Maldivian government said it desires normal pursuits and occupations of the 6000 people and the call for the British not to interfere with the occupations came from a fear that people may abandon their traditional way of life. They will become accustomed to easy money while the Air Base is been built and when employment in the project ceases these people will be unwilling or unfit to go back to their former occupations. A Maldivian government correspondent stated that even teachers in Addu were leaving their school jobs to work as unskilled labourers on Gan Island, because of the attractive wages offered by the British. If this were to continue the rehabilitation of the Islanders would become a major problem to the Maldivian government. As the islanders do not think long terms and does not naturally look at things in that light and were anxious to ear quick returns without any thought for what would happen afterwards it was the governments responsibility to protect them.

Gan acclaimed as the largest Island in Addu atoll the biggest and most populated Atoll in the Maldives, the British in the North West Island of Hithadoo in the inhabited island, wanted to construct a Radio Station. Maldives expressed anxious concern that activities in Gan and Hithadho may interfere with traditional life of the population of Maradhu, Feydho and the developing population in Hithadho. Initially the island was not connected, and is separated by the sea. The government initially objected to cause ways connecting Gan, Feydhoo and Maradhoo and Hithadhoo.

Apart from the local employment issue, one of the main topics of discussion of the talks was over the British’s status in the Maldives. The Maldivian government wanted the British forces to be confined to the agreed areas and that they should have no status in the Maldives Islands as a whole. The discussion are also intended to cater for and centre on the Maldivian governments anxiety that the agreement with the Britain should not curtail its independence in independence affairs referred as trade and cultural affairs and anything to do with external politics. It was also emphasised that the Maldivian should have a free hand concerning education and Health.

Maldivian government’s general feeling also prevailed that Maldivian authorities do not want to become involved in power blocks. Instead of leasing Gan and Hithadhoo to the British the Maldivian wants it to be referred as gifts or giving Rights to the British government as an acknowledgment to the defence interests of the Common Wealth. In return the government asked for Assistance for Maldives to acquire from the Colombo plan countries and from the United Nation.

The Maldives government wants to put an end a speedier end to the ratification of the agreement as it has been in the status of discussion since early 1957. The Maldivian case was allowed to be presented by the six member delegation to Whitehall Direct.

Radio Station in Hithadhoo

By March 1959 developments towards establishing a Radio Station in Maldives started. It is the firs t radio station in the countries history and the intention was to build a large high powered radio station at the R.A.F base in Gan. It was decided to put 14 transmitters and nine recovers with the transmitting base to be built in Hiathadhoo. With the receiving stations based in Gan.

Popular revolt against the government by the Communities benefiting from the British Presence

On March from Srilanka it was reported that a popular revolt against the government was started and large scale support in all of the Southern Atolls Islands are backing the revolt. After the revolt which all Southern Island participated a new government was set up with a president and a committee elected by the people. The communication received by the Times Ceylon revealed that they have even contacted by the new governments Director of the Publication office The United Suvadive islands is been founded in Addu.

Ali Moosa stated that 33 people died of hunger caused by malnutrition by the poor administration and neglect of the government in Male’ and it feared that many more would die if something is not done about it.

It also stated the houses of common representatives situated in Addu atoll and neighbouring Fuvahmulah and Huvadhoo and the people acted in a unified one man approach. The reason given for the revolt and establishment of new government was the misrule and the imposition of new huge taxes on almost everything including houses and sailing craft.

There are limits on how much any body can endure. The spokes person Moosa stated that the islands having to suffer most and being oppressed and tyrannized long decided to act immediately. They have reached their limit of endurance and the cat and mouse games the government is playing with the British in relation to jeopardizing their live hood. Their revolt was against this tyranny. Mr Moosa Ali Didi also that all has gone quiet and after a peaceful democratic State in the United Suvadive Islands. They have notified the government concerned and have asked them to recognize the new State at once. Mr Abdullah Afif Didi the president of the New Suvadive Islands Government announced that in view of the presence of R.A.F on Gan and Hithadhoo islands, it was possible that his Government would be accused of succumbing to external influences. Mr Nasir the Prime Minister of the Maldives would loose no time in putting out a story like that to win the sympathy of the Ceylon nationalists, but the Ceylonese people were too wise to be caught in such a snare. They would understand the true situation.

Mr Abdullah Afif Didi reportedly said that outsiders were brought in by Nasir and his own company for his business interests. They leased or rather sold our islands without consulting us. But now Nasir and his gangs were shouting anti-British slogan in Male’. We know the British government have never done any harm to our country. On the contrary that the British has always protected them from foreign aggressions and helped and advised the people on improving their lives whenever desired. The British had never interfered in the internal matters of the islands and conducted in an Honest and trust worthy stance always. As a nation they have gained confidence of the people more than the Maldivian government.

He persistently claimed the United Suvadive Nation is not under any outside influence and would never be.

Furthermore they revolted against Male’ and set up an anew state of their own free will. Nasir Afif Didi claimed has bid farewell to democracy and common sense. Criticism was taboo and many good citizens had been arrested, imprisoned, maltreated and exiled without any trial. Mr Ismail Mohamed Didi Minister of State and Private Secretary to the Sultan was arrested and exiled without any trial. Mr Hirimmadi Kalaagefaanu chief of Suvadive Atolls had been arrested and exiled to an island to the far side of the country in the Northern Group of trials without any access to a trial.

Mr Abdullah Afif Didi also stated that the Southern people did never objected to the British Government having a staging post in Addu, and remembered how decades previously gone by the Japanese people proved to be a great menace to the existence of Maldivian. The presence of British people is said to be as indispensables in a case of global war, it was not likely to have great enemies such as the Japanese. In such a critical time in the global environment for the preservation of peace and safe existence of the people and democracy in their part of the world the British presence is a necessity.

80 People died in the Maldives

On march 16^th 1959 the toll of death due to hunger has reached critical 8o, however the British food offer was rejected. Mr Ahmed Zaki the Government Representative in Colombo stated in a press conference on March 16^th that any problem that existed in the Maldives Islands could be solved if the British left Maldives. Accompanied by five ministers of Ibrahim Naisrs' cabinet of Maldives who ere there to discuss the terms and condition of United Kingdoms presence in Addu backed this claim.

He also stated that in the defence interest of the Common Wealth that the Maldives does not seek immediate leaving of the British from Maldives.

It was revealed that by then food scarcity in the South and starvation has claimed the lives of 80 people. The representatives of newly found Suvadive Government reported the British officials of Gan Island of the seriousness of food shortage, but this claim was denied by Mr Zaki. He also stated the government rejected offer of food aid by the British because when in 1956 thousands had died in the capital Male’ and the Maldivian government had asked Britain for food supplies on humanitarian grounds, Britain refused to come to their aid. Zaki again stressed the British has started building an Airbase without the consent of Maldivian Government and in spite of repeated requests not to proceed to dos so they continued with the work. Zaki also expressed concern over not been able to contact any international organisation over the matter as Britain had taken the matter to any international body to themselves.

On the reported revolt Zaki declined to comment but said that the Deputy Chief of Addu atoll appointed by the government Mr Abdullah Afif Didi who reportedly had set himself up as the president of the new State was a man who created troubles to the government on earlier occasions. Statement issued by the Common Wealth Office in London stated that there was a severe famine in the Southern Part of Maldives. To meet the emergency and in response to an appeal from the people of Huvadhoo the United Kingdom Government is sending food immediately.

Article 33

Britain Blamed for the Revolt and Maldives Demand Immediate Removal of Major Phillip due to the Poisonous activity

On March17th of 1959 the Maldivian Government demanded the British to remove themselves from Gan Island in Addu where the Air Force was built. Major W. W.A Phillips immediate removal and a statement demanding it stated that he was primarily responsible for the revolt in Addu. The leader of the Ministerial Delegation Mr. H. Career presented the letter to the British High commissioner in Colombo Mr. A. F Morley during talks between the delegation and the High Commission. The letter requested the immediate removal of Major Phillip from Gun if the United Kingdom Government seriously proposes to continue friendly talks and relationship with the Maldivian government. It also asked to have steps taken to prevent the Royal Air force, Major Phillip or any other person from contacting or establishing contact with, or affording any assistance of whatever kind either in personal capacity or in official capacity, to any rebel or traitor who has betrayed or attempts to betray the Government and his Highness The Sultan of Maldives Islands.

The letter stated that the British should be aware that certain newspaper items have appeared in the country suggesting that political stability in Addu Atoll, in which the British are seeking an Air Base as well as of the two adjoining atolls had been disturbed by certain elements that can best be described as hirelings.

One of these Hirelings in a news paper in Ceylon described himself as President of Suvadive Atoll proposes to meet Major Phillip who is a resident of Gan Island. It further stated that the Maldives government has all times been aware of the undesirable and poisonous activities of Major Phillip who is primarily and mainly responsible for the alleged Revolt in the three atolls. As British government requested for permission for hi to be in Gan as the liaison officer to the Royal Air force it is your responsibility. He occupied some positions of apparent importance in the official set up on Gan the Maldives Government did not wish to disturb the even tenor of the discussions and negotiations by descending to complaints, however justified against individual members of British staff of Gan Island it was.

It stated that Maldivian Government felt that the time had come to request the British very cordially to take immediate steps to secure the removal of Major Phillip. It is the sad duty to state categorically that unless the British take such steps as indicated to restore the Maldives faith in the honesty of purpose of the British Government the Maldivian government would be compelled to consider necessary for taking measures to endure the maintenance of law and order in the area in which the British are in authorised occupation.

In view of the misleading nature of the publicity that had been given to the activities of the hirelings, and in view of the considered options of the Maldivian government that such distorted news can emanate only from and through Royal Air force sources on Gan. The Maldivian government had no alternative but to release the regrettable but extremely justified and necessary request to the news of the world. The government of Maldives also stated they hoped to understand that it is not a deliberate or malicious violation of the Maldivian government or the agreement to maintain secrecy about the deliberations between the two governments.

The letter in the end stated by emphasising the Maldivian government’s desire for friendship and close collaboration with the British Government. Major Phillip who was 67 was appointed as liaison officer with the R.A.F in Gan to smooth out difficulties with the islanders. Later his designation was changed to Advisor on Maldivian Affairs to the Royal Air Force in Gan. Major Phillip at the time had asked to be relieved of his post and his request was acceded to be released soon. He used to be Tea Planter in Ceylon from 1911 to 1957. He was an ornithologist of repute and had several books published.

The Maldivian government soon after send a message to the Common Wealth relation Office in London and it stated that the British Governments decision to heed falsely reports of activities of a few ambitious greedy Maldivian backed by the Royal Air Force in Gan had deliberately calculated to cause frictions and disruptions in the smooth peaceful atmosphere that had this far prevailed between the Government and the People of the Maldives Islands. The silent invasion of the Maldives Islands by Britain was not only selfish but also aimed at making Maldivian the slaves of Brittan. It stated that the Maldivian Ministers hope was that the British Government would not consider it humanitarian to issue arms and weapons to them.

British Reply to Accusations

On March 19^th 1959 to answer to the letter by Mr. H. Zareer head of the Maldivian delegation to talks with the British the High Commissioner of UK based in Srilanka Mr. A. F. Morley send a letter to Barer. The High Commissioner’s letter stated that he had forwarded the Maldivian Government letter of March 18^th despite its somewhat intemperate terms to the UK government. He referred that the letter contained a number of extraordinary allegations to the effect that the United Kingdom Government had been working to divide the Maldivian people. It claimed that there was no vestige of truth in the allegations and as he had said at the last meetings of both parties the difficulties Maldivian government had at the time with the people of Southern Atolls were mainly due to the spontaneous resentment at the policies which the Maldivian Government had been following towards their people. He added that neither he nor any United Kingdom Authority is responsible for the publicity which had then been given to those matters in the Ceylon press or elsewhere.

The letter was referred in short and prompt manner to the letter send by Mr. H. Zareer.

It stated that in Zareers letter he had said by sending food to Huvadhoo atoll Britain was acting contrary to the express desires of the legitimate Government of Maldives and that action was deliberately calculated to kindle in the minds of the Maldivian a flame of ill will and misunderstanding towards the Maldivian Government. The commissioner claimed he was quite aware of the promises made by representatives at Gan of the British Government to leaders of the disobedient group to keep up agitations and that he fully knows the Maldivian Government were considering drastic steps not on Humanitarian grounds but on scheming selfish grounds with the hope of splitting the Unity of Maldivian. He referred to the message send by the Maldivian Government to Mr. Gaitskell challenging the statement made in the house of common on the previous day by Mr. Alport the Under Secretary for Common Wealth relations. The message reiterated that the activities of Major Phillip had been responsible for the discontent in the three atolls. It asked Mr Gaitskell to demand the immediate withdrawal of Major Phillip and to raise the matter to The House of Common on the ground that Untied Kingdom Government is flagrantly and deliberately interfering internal affairs of the Sovereign State of Maldives. United Kingdom takes no responsibility to the allegations and accusations made in the letter.

Government Seeks cut in Lease

March 24^th 1959 the Maldivian government pressed for the reduction of the proposed lease of hundred years. By now the British has re established and relocated the Air Force Headquarter from Srilanka to Maldives. Also the wireless station in Hithadoo was progressing according to the Comptroller and Auditor General Sir Edmund Compton in his report on the Air Services Appropriation Account for 1957-58.

By then Mr Alport under Secretary to Common Wealth Affairs in the House of Common had denied allegations put out by representatives of the Maldivian Government that Major Phillip Advisor for the British Air Base in Gun was responsible for the revolt in the three southern atolls of Addu Fuvahmulah and Huvadhoo. He stated that the people of the three atolls had a number of grievances against the Maldivian Government who in 1958 held wages from the Adduans who had been recruited to work in R.A.F.
Sir Edmond explained how the estimate for the construction of the airfield and Wireless Station was put at 2,700,000 in 1957 but by September it had increased to 3,800,000 pounds. The reason as cost of providing aggregate for the runway because the Air Ministry had not been allowed dot build causeways between Gan and adjoining islands from which the aggregate could have been taken at a lower cost. Delays in constructing the work were restricted during the negotiation period. The auditor general indicates the cost did not involve the cost of relocating the inhabitants of Gan Island to Feydhoo Island. The cost of building new houses for the displaced islanders was estimated in January at 50, 0000 pounds. When the agreement was made in 1948 the Maldives Government undertook to afford every assistance in re-establishing the Air Base. The heads of agreement initialled in 1956 December provided for the easing of Gan and part of Hithadhoo for 100 years made the investment worthy at the time.

Maldives Policy of Breaking Away- A recaps Analysis of the last few Years.

By April 2^nd the newspaper correspondents were finding it extremely hard to get to Maldives. Sometimes the Sultan was blamed for keeping journalists out sometimes the British authorities. The policy was referred as short sighted by journalists and against the public interest. When access to information was denied it was stated that there would be always suspicion that someone or something is there to hide. The story of the dispute clear enough in its main course left many points which dependent observations could amplify more and explain.

The decision was announced at the beginning of 1957 and was taken because Ceylon Governments determination to withdraw British facilities at Trinkomalee and Katnayake. Then Maldives Government was very happy about the arrangement. It offered the Maldivian people economic advantages that Mr Bandaranaike had spurned and they were quick to give the R.A.F. a hundred years lease on the island of Gan. Since then there had been changes in the Government in the Maldives and for variety of reason the new Government was more hostile to the idea of having an Airbase sited on one of its islands. However secure the British Governments legal rights and unquestionable they were, there were moral and practical difficulties in maintaining a base in Maldives against their wishes. Meanwhile the work went on to be finished in by the middle of the year.

Britain relationship with Maldives dives when the Maldives became a British protectorate in 1887. When Ceylon became independent in 1948 a new agreement was signed by the Sultan and the United Kingdom. It provided that in addition to remaining under a British Protectorate the islands should have their external affairs conducted by or in accordance with the advice of British Government advice. The British Government would not interfere with the internal affairs of the islands and that the Sultan should give British forces any facilities that night be necessary to defend Maldives or of the Common Wealth.

In 1953 a new agreement was signed between the British and Maldivian government reaffirming the provisions of the 1948 agreement. In March 1957 the exchange of letters between the British Government and Sultan confirmed the 1953 agreement. The agreement guaranteeing a lease of Gan was initiated in 1956 by Ibrahim Didi the then Prime Minister, but at the end of the following year he was succeeded by Mr Ibrahim Nasir. It was with Mr. Nasir’s succession that relation between the British and the Maldivian governments became difficult.

One of the results of building an Air Base on Gan was that the inhabitants of the island were able, by working for the R.A.F considerably to improve their living standards. The Maldivian government since then has tried unsuccessfully to prevent islanders form working for the R.A.F. The outcome of the dispute was the breaking of the three southern Atolls from the authorities of the Maldivian Government and establishment of a Government of the United Suvadive Islands. This had lead to wild accusation against the British by the Maldivian Government and has put the British in the embarrassing position of being attacked by the official Government but warmly encouraged to stay by the revolutionaries. It was stated that pig in the Middle was an uncomfortable game to play at international level, but the British Government might be encouraged by the fact that in spite of its violent accusations and language the Maldivian Government professed to want to remain under ht British protection and to resume negotiations.

Denial of Maldivian Disturbances

 On April 6^th 1959 the Maldivian government representative in Colombo stated that they heard reports of disturbances in Island of Addu Atoll, where R.A.F staging post was based. It was caused by the Royal Air force’s presence and that they had reports of demonstration in the islands against the newly established government of Suvadive Islands. Maldives capital would not confirm the reports. The United Kingdom High Commissioner in Srilanka confirmed the news, but denied that the R.A.F opened fire against the demonstrators. Denying the reports that R.A.F had imposed a curfew on the three atolls the Spokes Person stated that the R.A.F was present only in one atoll.

Governments Landing Beaten Off and dissidents claim Success

Mr Abdullah Afif Didi president of the Suvadi Islands the Republic set up in the Maldives on April 8^th 1959 Maldives claimed success over an attack carried out by the Maldivian Government. The attack carried out by the government killed one man and injured four others. The attack was carried out on one of the Suvadive Atolls of Fuvahmulah. The people injured and the person killed were residents of Fuvahmulah. An armed force attempted to land but was beaten off by the islanders with sticks stones, coral and other primitive weapons. The attack was carried out on March 30^th 1959, while the islanders were completely unaware and unarmed. Furthermore the attack on Fuvahmulah was carried out while people were fasting in the month of Ramazan,

Mr Afif Did stated that the ship belonged to a Ceylon line and had on board at least one Male’ official of the Government. This was no doubt of one of the measures announced by Mr Zaki the Male’ representative in Ceylon to suppress the Revolt of the people of the islands of the three atolls, against the tyranny of the Government. As an act of intimidation it has left some imprints but Afif Didi claimed that it failed. He stated that he and the people of the Government of United Suvadi Islands had become even more determined to resist any efforts to reinforce despotic upon the Southern Islands.

Mr Faroog Ismail who succeeded Mr Zaki the previous week as Maldivian Government Representative in Ceylon refused from commenting.

A new Advisor to Gan Staging Post

On 10^th April anew Advisor Mr. Humphrey A. Arthington- Davy was appointed as the Advisor for the Maldivian Affairs with the Royal Air force in Gan replacing Major W.W.A Phillip. The Common Wealth relations Office Stated that this action was followed due to the request made by Major Phillip to be relieved of his appointment put in a few months earlier.

Mr Arthington sailed to Colombo on Saturday to begin his duties, and expected to arrive to Gan. The new Advisor was only 38 and was educated at East Bourne College and Trinity College Cambridge. Also he served in the Indian Army during the Second World War. He transferred to Indian Political Service in 1946 and following the partitions he remained in the service of the Pakistan Government until 1956.He was appointed after one year service in the Common Wealth Relation Office.

The first Time Ever a Maldivian set foot on England

On May 1^st 195p it was decided that a Maldivian delegation would come to London at the end of May for Negotiations on the R.A.F staging Post on Gan Island and the definition of Britain relationship with the Maldives. It was believed to be the first time any Maldivian would have set foot on England. Good hope of success in the negotiations was held by the legal advisor appointed by the Maldivian Government Mr. K. C. Nadarajah. He spend a month on preparing for the ground by consultations at the Common Wealth Relation Office and enlisting empathy for Maldivian case among members and M.P s members of the Bow Group and other leaders..

Mr Nadarajan is British educated Ceylonese who agreed to advise the Maldivian prior to a year. He was to brief the delegates  in Colombo before bringing the them to the United Kingdom at which they were to seek to modify the heads of agreement provided for the Staging Post on Gan. Initialised by the predecessor of the present government of Maldives.

Since the heads of agreement about Gan were initialised by R.A.F had proceeded with the project. Mr Nadarajah consulted international lawyers in Geneva and claimed that the authority for the view of then was that R.A.F was trespassing since no agreement had being finally signed. Government asked R.A.F not to employ Maldives labours until an agreement was reached and signed but according to him the R.A.F reposted by raising wages. The Maldivian government asked the British Government for aid for its police force to enable them to deal with the revolt in the Southern Atolls. This could have demonstrated to the world that contrary to widely suspicions Britain had no sympathy with the insurgents, who had professed support for the R.A.F in their dispute with the legitimate government of Maldives in capital Male.

The basis for the negotiation, in spite of the difficulties it was believed that a happy outcome was possible. The Maldivian delegates were to put forward some terms and conditions for the lease of Gan in the negotiation process and the basis of the negotiation process was to be 1956 agreement and the out come expected was a final agreement which stated the following.

It states that the British Government originally offered a rent of 2000 pound per year. In view of the strategic importance which Gan would assume considered the amount ridiculously little and intended to ask for 100,000 per year. At first Britain suggested a 100 year lease but had been reduced it to 30 years. The Maldivian proposed 15 years and in any event do not wished to commit the next generation of their country men to what may turn out to be an unwelcome obligation. The Maldivian did not wish to impose any restriction on the use of Gan qualified that in the event of hostilities they should not be in any way involved.

A separate agreement to be signed at the same time would alter the Maldives a vis-à-vis Britain. The notion of a protectorate embodied in the 1953agreement was anachronistic according to Mr. Nadarajah and he\ would like the content rather than the form of protectorate status not from their enemies but from progress. The Maldivian wanted the status of the relationship to be friendly as the British has stated. The statement defined by Britain in the agreement specified that Britain recognises the Maldives as a sovereign independent state. Also that Maldives voluntarily requested Britain to handle their political relations with other countries while retaining their own control over the economic, cultural and educational agencies. Furthermore in their health and educational relations with other countries and specialised agencies such as World Health organisation.   It was understood that the British Government had already agreed to the proposal.         Britain also guaranteed the territorial integrity of the Maldives. Mr Nadarajah regarded it as recognition of the independent state of Maldives that the British agreed to take the negotiations out of the hands of Colombo and to conduct them at a higher level in London. He pointed that although the Maldivian terms go beyond what Britain has offered at some points there was no question of ht extreme gestures of Anti British defiance that have been urged in some quarters.

Situation in the Maldives According got Afif Did

Afif Didi in a letter to the news paper on May 25^th of 1959 stated that he had noted with interest statements made in the press and radio concerning the political situation of Maldives and in particular reports of the various utterances of the Male’ Government in Ceylon and London. He wanted to present this side of the picture.

Some of the reason for secession Afif Did claimed from Male’ was which refereed as the old capital of Maldives was as following. He claimed that the indifferences of the administration to the elementary needs and fate of the people of the including islands food and clothing, medicine, education social welfare and c. of many years Afif Did stated that they have been reduced to serfs and bled by extortionate by taxes and levies. At the commencement of the year 1959 further taxes were imposed and the people who had noting to left to give revolted.

He asked to bear in mind that they had not a single doctor for 18000 undernourished people, nor any medical supplies whatsoever. They had no schools, no means of communication, and no public utilities. All this was stated as certainly the fault of Male’. Epidemics of Asian flu, Malaria, Enteric, Typhoid, Diarrhoea, Conjunctivitis &c sweep islands periodically during the year. And in 1958 a serious outbreak of Decentry causing many deaths. When appealed to Male’ for help they refused and very piously told to go and read Quran. The R.A.F doctors came to the citizen’s aid supplied medicine and visited the sick day and night. H asked the question where they can question why they hate Male’.

Afif Didi stated that their main export from their islands in the South was dried Maldives fish which they send to Male’ for sale in Ceylon. Payment were made to Male’ in Ceylon rupees, but the citizens were forced by Male’ authorities to accept Maldivian rupees which then was one Maldives rupee was worth only half a Ceylon  rupee. The people had to end up buying food what they could afford from Male’ at Ceylon Prices.

The letter also stated that that the presence of British in Addu Atoll had absolutely nothing to do with the will of the people to break away from Male’. Attempts had been made before and as recent as 18 months prior to writing the letter Afif Didi stated that men were imprisoned for trying to make an improvement of their situation. He defended R.A, F and said that they had no knowledge of their intentions to make an uprising on the first day of 1959. It was a planned action by the people to show Male’ that they are determined never again to submit to the despotic rule of a government of one family.

He stated that he wished to make it clear that they had set up a government unanimously elected by the will of the people. He stated that United Suvadive Island is a state of 18,000 people willing and able to support themselves in spite of Male’. That they are now the citizens of United Suvadive Islands and their immediate policy was betterment of their people, friendliness to all nations and in particular to the British who had sincerely helped and wisely guided the Maldives whenever they desired to do so in the past.

Furthermore he stated that they were in favour of the Staging Post and Radio Station at Gan and Hithadhoo Islands respectively, which would bring economic development and prosperity to the islands. He earnestly appealed to United Kingdom and the people for help and understanding, He stated that they had been inhabiting these islands from times immemorial, possessing there by inalienable rights over them, the ownership therefore thereof could not certainly be claimed by the Male’ Government. Furthermore he appealed to the British Government to kindly grant them facilities to open negotiation at once with a view to conclude a Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between her Majesty’s government and the United Suvadive Islands. He ended the letter stating that he hoped the British Government and people would appreciate the justice of their cause and recognise the United Suvadive Islands. It was signed as yours Truly Abdullah Afif Didi President, United Suvadive Islands. The Secretariat. Hithadhoo. United Suvadive Islands.

Invitations for Renewed Negotiations

On Wednesday June 30th^st it was confirmed in London that the  British Government had invited a delegation from Maldives to come to London in September to resume the negotiations that were put on hold after breaking down of the friendly terms with UK and Maldives Government earlier in the year. The Maldivian government was not forth coming with an immediate response as they have not decided whether they would be able to send a delegation to London at that time. Discussion between the two governments reached deadlock in March when the Maldivian demanded sovereignty and independence of the islands to be recognised by the British government. After the rebellion in the South Atolls the government allegation was British inspired was the main reason for the abandoning of talks.

Work continue din Gan where the rebel against the governments under the agreement in December although the validity of British action were questioned. The Revolt in Maldives had added complications to any negotiations that were to take place was the view, as the three Southern atolls of Svadive Republic flatly refused to recognise the authority of Maldivian Government in capital Male,. Further communications of Mr Afif Didi to Newspapers the president of the Revolutionary government had stated that the Suvadive Republic and southern atolls would never tolerate or recognise or accept an agreement regarding any of their islands made with Male, without their consent and approval. He clearly stated that he would resist any efforts to force them to accept any such proposals as the Male, Government may hope to have incorporate and on any agreement.

The President Afif Didi stated that he would point out that before the formation of United Suvadive Islands the British Air Ministry and R.A.F authorities at Gan and Hithadhoo suffered grave income variance and obstruction from Male, in their effort to create a staging post and radio station. Male, he claimed had send representatives Mr Zaki on December 28^th 1958 with a proclamation to the people that they must not work for the Royal Air force. Air Ministry or their contractors otherwise they would severely be punished. The people according to Afif Didi reiterates what he said in his previous correspondences on May 25^th and wish to conclude an agreement with the British Government on their own behalf covering the establishment and working of the staging post. In conclusion of his statement he stressed that no agreement in that connection made with Male’ would ever be acceptable to them as they are the owners of the island certainly not Male’.

Food send by Britain

A Maldivian Government statement issued in Colombo on July 7^th stated that the Government had reliable information that a ship chartered by the British authorities had taken foodstuff about a fortnight before to Huvadhoo atoll one of the three Southern Atolls that Joined the Suvadive Republic and also where a famine was reported earlier in the year. The government considered this an unlawful act violating the treaties and agreement between the British Government and Maldives. The government stated that unless a recurrence of acts a was prevented forwith a resumption of the discussion on various problems existing between the British Government and the Maldivian Government would not be fruitful

Surrender of Suvadive

On July 30^th the Maldivian Government in Ceylon announced that two of the atolls that rebelled against the government and which had been influenced by the British Government of the past six-month had surrendered to the Government.

The representative stated that the inhabitants of the two atolls were thoroughly disgusted with the false promises made by the United Kingdom authorities and had taken their decision to their own interest. The government of Maldives then decided to send 5000 bags of food to the atolls to avoid famine. Following the surrender the Prime Minster visited the atolls and promised the islanders all support needed.

It was told that the Islanders had been living starvation level since Abdullah Afif Didi constituted an illegal Government with the assistance of the British. He stated that the British authorities had sent only about 500 bags of food since the rebellion started six months earlier, when the islanders needed between 3000 and 4000 bags a month. British troops according to the representative were in control of one atoll. That was Addu atoll. In answer to that the British High Commission in Srilanka said that Britain had at any stage not intervened or interfered in the internal affairs of Maldives and the Royal Air force in Gan Island and part of Hitherto which both were in Addu atoll were by agreement.

Offer of Good Offices and aid in restoration of Authorities

August 7^th 1959 the British High Commissioner in Ceylon handed the statement a statement to the acting representative of Maldivian Government in Ceylon. According to the statement the British Government took strong exception to reports in the Ceylon press attributed to the acting Maldivian Government Representative which revived earlier unfounded allegations already officially denied by the United Kingdom Government that the latter were party to encourage the establishment of a secessionist regime in the Southern Maldives. The United Kingdom Government it clear they had consistently adhered to the treaty between themselves and the Maldives and had avoided intervention in the Maldivian internal politics. They do not regard despatch of supplies to relive famine as anything more than an act of humanity and vigorously refute the version of these acts y the Maldivian representative.

Since the withdrawal from Addu Atoll of the Maldivian government representatives

With the United Kingdom Government had of necessity conducted essential local transactions with such effective spokesmen of Addu islanders as were available. Conditions within the islands were said to be peaceful and orderly.\The United Kingdom had stated that they had learned with regret of violent behaviour and incidents that had occurred in Huvadhoo resulting in serious loss of life which had occurred during operation carried out by armed parties under of the authority of Maldivian Government against the inhabitants of the area, They stated that they would be most concerned if similar actions in the neighbourhood of their installation of Addu Atoll were to occasion similar blood shed and violence.

It started that Maldivian Government would realise that any repetition of these events in Addu Atoll would endanger the United Kingdom right use of its installation besides threatening the safety of those engaged in completing the work in progress there under their existing agreement. While not questioning the authority of the Maldivian Government throughout the United Kingdom Government maintain their right to take proper steps to safeguard their personals. So it stated that the United Kingdom offer its good offices to the Maldivian Government in order to assist it to reach agreement peacefully for effective re-establishment of its authority on Addu Atoll in a manner satisfactory to all parties.

The United Kingdom proposed that direct contact should be arranged between representatives of the Maldivian Government and representatives of Addu Atoll islanders either at Gan or on another island in Addu Atoll agreed by all parties. The Ignited Kingdom expressed willingness and that it would be happy to arrange for the transport of Maldivian Government representatives to Addu and provide for their sentatives to Addu and to provide for their accommodation while they were there. The United Kingdom expressed hope of the fact that Maldivian Government would accept the opportunity and the offer of interests a of a peaceful settlement and that successful outcome of the discussions would be followed by a resumption of the general negotiations which had been contemplated in September.

British Troops Arrival to Maldives

On August 13th 1959 a company the 1^st Battalion, The Cheshire Regiment based on Singapore was flown to Maldives the island of Gan. Between hundred to hundred and fifty personal and the equipments were dispatched. The official explanation given was that it was part of a series of exercises in Army R.A.F cooperation and air mobility of activities and was intended to test the Royal Air force Staging post at Gan which was coming to use then. To others there was a logical connection with the move and the statement made by the British Government to the Maldivian Government on Friday though the service they not admit to it.

The Regiments Visit

The visit of the Battalion the Cheshire Regiment was what every body thought. Although it aroused interest it became clear on August 14^th the following day that their visit was to test the mobility of Gan as a Staging Post. The R.A.F it was claimed the army to send the men and the Company of Cheshire regiment, although they left it was claimed that the possibility to return after another week was there. This was a demonstration of British readiness to answer any distress calls and the action had demonstrated the stand taken by the United Kingdom Government in the statement to the Maldivian Government. The stance was reinforced and made more apparent by the regiments prompt arrival. A newspaper in Colombo claimed on August 5^th five Maldives citizen ere killed of the rebellion Huvadhoo atoll. They were shot dead and seven other were injured by an expeditionary force from Male’ the capital, and also that some islanders were whipped on the beaches. The representatives of Maldives denied the loss of life and injuries, but British referred into their warning s as violent incidents in Huvadhoo resulting in loss of life. It was stated that the sending of a small number of troops was meant to discourage any expedition against or near the islands where the Royal Air force has installation.

Maldives Protest over Troops

On August 14^th Maldivian Government protested against the British dispatch of British Troops to Gan was announced by the Maldivian representative in Colombo. The British action was stated as a direct source of encouragement to rebellious elements in the Maldives apart from violation of agreement regarding the use of Gan. The statement issued by Mr. A Hilmy Didi the acting Maldivian Government in Colombo said that Maldivian Government considered it expedient to lodge an immediate protest as it was patently clear that the troop’s movement had been motivated by no kindly consideration towards the lawfully constituted authority of the Maldivian Government. Furthermore he stated that it could not be regarded as isolated act unconnected with Gan developments in view of the political relations between the two governments. The statements were mad that they the government was aware that the Afif's regime originally proclaimed direct and indirect support from the British Authority, but it was now collapsing in the wake of popular awareness that Afeef represented imperialist interests of his supporters, The statement strongly stated that popular movement was gathering momentum to crush the Afeef faction. As the people were not armed and therefore the movement presented no threat as movements before too had done no harm to armed British Personal and installation in Addu.

Against the background the landing of troops could not be an act to intimidate unarmed Islanders rising to overthrow the traitorous regime and thereby propping up of this regime against the government of Maldives wishes. This act taken in conjunction with the statement  of the British Government offering their good offices to bring about a rapprochement between the government and the rebellion would were seemed as more sinister in motive. The offer according to the government was mad e as a threat to that Britain would be forced to take whatever steps necessary in their interests if the offer were not taken advantage of by the Maldivian Government.

The Representative stated that the British Government would readily see if they are prepared to see that the influence of landing troops first effects and influences the natural course of political development in the Maldives Governments legitimate rights to deal with internal disorder. Furthermore that it was a direct source of encouragement to the dying force of rebellion elements. Also it hampered the Maldivian Government legitimate rights to deal with internal problems a disorder. Finally he state that it violates existing agreements concerning the use of Gan and furthermore it vitiates the atmosphere of good will the Maldivian Government had been seeking to build up to facilitate the resumption of talks in London to revive whole lot of problems of their political relations with Britain.

The Maldivian also responded that the British Government maintained shelter under the 1953 agreement to justify the landing of additional troops but the terms of agreement themselves which were as subject o dispute did not entitle the Britain to act without prior consultation.

A representative of the United Kingdom based in Combo stated that the facilities in the agreement referred to Gan Island for the building of a staging post and part of Hithadhoo Island for the establishment Radio station. There was no obligation on the part of the United Kingdom government to consult the Maldivian Government about details of their day to day work or about the number of service men stationed in their places. The spokes man further stated that sending Mr Zaki the former Maldivian High Commissioner from Colombo to Gan in December of the previous year to ask the Maldivian not to work for the Royal air Force was a fine way of affording assistance. He stated than the visit by Mr Zaki was what set into motion train events that lead to the unhealthy situation.

Rejection of British Offer

The Maldivian Government rejected the British offer of their good offices on 18^th August of 1959 to bring peaceful settlement of the revolt in the Southern atolls. It had also refused invitations to send a delegation to London in September to resume dialogue. The British government mad either offer in as statement handed by the High Commissioner in Ceylon. The statement expressed their regret at the violent incidents which took place in Huvadhoo and Fuvahmulah under ht authority of the Maldivian Government. It also warned ht Maldivian Government that a repetition of such events in Addu would endanger the British presence and would be safeguarded in accordance.

Lord Homes secretary of State for Common wealth Relations wrote that Mr Ibrahim Nasir the Prime Minster of Maldives to explain the British offer of good offices to the Ministers and parliament, so that the authority of Male’ could be re-established, and emphasised that it was the British intention and desire. Lord Homes requested for a London trip to be reconfirmed for the middle of September to discuss future relations and the further arrangements of British establishment in Hithadhoo and Gan.

The Maldivian flat rejection of all the British Government offers left the situation even tenser and everything in the air. The Staging Post up on finishing had being already in us by Military Aircrafts and the British felt that under the 1953 agreement and the additional heads agreement in 1956 all gave them the full legal right to the Stage Post as they  have started doing.

At the sometime they were being caused some embarrassment by the fact that Addu Atoll on which the Post was located was the only atoll remaining in the control of the rebels. While trying to scrupulously to observe a policy of non-interferences the British had established a working relationship with the islanders as about 600 were working for the R.A.F.

Charges against British officers

 On August 29^th the rejection of the British Government offer of good offices in re-establishing the authority of the Maldivian Government in the Southern Atolls was answered by Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir himself. This was in response to Lord Homes message. He stated that High ranking officers of the British Government services who visited Addu Atoll deliberately violated the laws and rules of his Government. Such Occurrences had been recurring despite the fact that repeated requests were been made by his government to the high Commissioner for UK in Srilanka take necessary actions to prevent each indulgences on the part of the UK officials.

He stated that in view of the attitudes exhibited by UK officials in the Maldives and Srilanka and as long as they continued to do so his government his government fail to understand it and any useful purpose would be served by such discussions in London as suggested earlier.

Talks resumed

On January 14^th 1960 talks between the United Kingdom and Maldives Government that were suspended in March had been resumed in Colombo. This time those taking part included the Prime Minster of Maldives Mr Ibrahim Nasir himself accompanied by Mr Shihab Attorney General and Minster of Public Guidance and Mr Hilmy Didi  Maldivian representative in Ceylon. For the United Kingdom Sir Alexander Morley High Commissioner in Colombo Mr W.A.W Clark Assistant Under Secretary of State Commonwealth Relations Officer and Air chief Marshall Lord Bandon Commander in chief of Far East Force. The talks which continued covered relations between the two governments and the Use of facilities in Gan and Hithadhoo.

Talks Adjourned

On Monday 18^th January 1960 talks between the two countries were adjourned with considerable progress it was stated. That was the British High Commissioner statement to the press. The talks covered relations between the two countries which were protected by Britain but have complete independence in internal affairs. However it was reported that the talks would be resumed in February again.

Gift of Gan to Britain for 30 Years

February 4^th 1960 was a historic day in the Maldives political History as and Agreement between the British Government and Maldives Government was finally reached after years of misunderstandings and conflict. The story of Gan the most southerly Island in the most Southern Atoll of Maldives on which R.A.F was completely completed following a three year of ongoing disagreement and misunderstandings. It was announced all over ht country and neighbouring countries under an agreement initialled in Srilanka the Government of Maldives had agreed to make a gift of the island to the British for thirty years.

The negotiations were conducted by W.A.W Clark of the Commonwealth Relation Office with Mr Ibrahim Minster the Prime Minister of Maldives. The agreement ended defining the relations between the Britain and Maldives which took place earlier of earlier agreements dating back to 1887. It was to be signed on February 14^th in the capital of Maldives Male’ by Mr Alport Minster for Common Wealth relations.

Under the agreement British responsibility for defence and foreign affairs remained but the government would conduct its own relation in economic and cultural matters. Relations with the government hitherto been conducted in Colombo by the British High commissioner in Ceylon. However Britain would also be based in the capital Island Male’ or to be based in the island of Dhoonidhoo an island very close to the capital. The British Government recognised the economic difficulties of the Maldives Government and agreed to make a special grant of 100,000 to the Maldives budget and to make available 850,000 pounds or 10 million rupees to be spread over a period pf years to aid specific projects for development of Fisheries as an Industry, Communications and the public sector of Health and Education.

The agreement also provided for the awkward position which had developed since work on the base began when in 1959a rebellion broke in March and an independent government was proclaimed in some islands adjoining the British Airbase. It was clarified that no British recognition had ever been given to that government and the new agreement with Male'’ clearly recognised its authority alone. However it was agreed that no steps were to be taken to reassert this authority by force. It was intended that the British Offices should effect a gradual ad peaceful reconciliation. Full details of the agreement were to be revealed when it would be signed on February 14^th.

Agreement Signed

British gunboat diplomacy returned fleetingly to the Indian Ocean the week with a difference. The cruiser Gambia Captain W. J Munn came to Male’ capital of the Maldives Islands, with a Minister of State a High commissioner and an Air Chief Marshal to end the dispute over the islands of Gan and against the background of a lusty football match marching pipes and drums and clapping but shy crowds an agreement was finally signed,

It was stated there were some ticklish moments. Agreement over the use of Gan was one more thing, agreement over the slight looking but determined Mr. Afif Didi who had established himself independently of Male'’ in which Gan lies was another matter. Mr Afif Didi still had his own flag that flies and called himself President of Suvadive Islands.

These details ere not overlooked by the Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir. As Minster for Home affairs External Affairs and Public Safety and Education Finance and Trade and Public works he had an initial vote in Male’ of five and it was important that this silent puzzling man be reassured. Mr Alport Minister of State for Common Wealth Relation assured him and he also reassured Mr Afif Didi about his own future and safety. Consequently an important exchange of letters as an adjunct to eh agreement occurred.

In the letters the British Government stated there can be no question of the recognition of any Government in the Maldives except that of Sultan in Male’ and they would do their best to promote an early reconciliation peacefully between the inhabitants of Addu atoll and that of Sultans Government. The Maldives Government acknowledged this stand and undertook that it officers would return to Addu until both governments agreed this could be done peacefully. The agreement itself which was due to be published as a White paper in London the very next day reaffirmed Britain’s responsibility for the defence of the Maldives and said she would refrain from intervention in the internal affairs of the Maldives except as mutually agreed. In addition to the completed work of Gan a landing strip on an island near Male’ was contemplated.

The Maldives Government’s political relations abroad would still be in Britain hands but would be free to conduct external affairs in economic, commercial, educational and cultural relations. This meant Britain would station two political representatives in the Maldives one in Male’ one in Gan. When Gambia reached Male’ and halted a salute of 21 guns then waited patiently while a muzzle loader ashore manfully replied 21 times. The puffs drifted over a Portuguese Semi Circular Fort. Flags were every where ashore and soon Maldives flag became visible as the state barge with two escorts rowed near to fetch Mr. Alport, Sir Alexander Morley, the United Kingdom High Commissioner and Lord Commander in Chief in Ceylon lord Bandon ashore.

The party was met by Mr Ibrahim Nasir and his delegates wearing white tunics above their sarongs and gold stripes on their epaulettes each according to his authority. The talks occupied all afternoon until a football match between Gambia side and their dark Maldivian opponents. The Gambia scored a polite win. The Sultan who was only secondly seen attended the event and most remarkably among the guest was Maldivian women who were encouraged to talk in English with the visitors.

Following the function Nasir made a speech in which he stated that he was signing the agreement with the firm belief that the bonds of friendship understanding assistance would strengthen daily and never weaken and rust Replying Mr. Alport that recently there had been some misunderstanding in the relation between the two countries, and it was his earnest belief that in the charming phrase of the chronicle Thareekh these difficulties would prove to be as transient as Sunbeams

NEW AIRSTIP IN THE MALDIVES: BUILDING FEAT OF TWO R.A.F. MAN

After four months’ gruelling work in the hot sunshine of the Indian Ocean two RAF men, with a force of 200 native labourers, have just completed what is perhaps one of the world’s remotest airstrip.

It is at Huele, a coral island in Male atoll in the Maldives, some 300 miles from the Royal Air Force staging post at Gan. The airstrip will be used to provide air transport facilities for the maldivian government and the united kingdom representative. The air ministry is also providing a signals station at Dunidu, a coral islan adjoining Huele, for use by the United Kingdom representative.

When Warrant Officer S.W. Bushell and Corporal K. Bayliss first arrived on the island the future airstrip was  a tangle of trees, bushes, and dense vegetation. As the native labourers did not understand english the RAF men had to indicate by signs that they wanted all vegetation removed to proovide space for a runway 3000 ft long by 50 ft wide.

Maldives’ dispute with Britain

A situation, which would be wholly ludicrous if it had not also about it undertones of latent violence, has arisen in the British – protected Maldive Islands in the Indian Ocean.

It is now nearly two months since the British Government felt obliged to send to Male, the capital, the frigate Loch Fada for the protection of British subjects, in including the British rpresentative, Mr. H. A Arthington Davy. This followed anti British demonstations by the people of Male and notification from the Maldives Government that British subjects might be in danger if they remained in the territory.

Since then, two schoolteachers and other British subjects have been transferred. But Mr. Arthington Davy remains on the islad of Dindu, some two miles from Male. With him, it is understood, are a British naval architect and two British wireless operators. A naval vessel is also close at hand.

AIR STAGING POST

The situation on the spot is said to be calm, but a settlement of the original dispute which produced the demonstartions, is no nearer than before. The dispute arose from the British need for an air staging post in the Indian Ocean. In 1959 negotations were proceeding for an airfield at Gan island in the Add atoll, at the southern end of the Maldives, some 300 miles from Male, but the Adduans, who were likely to do nicely out of the RAF and who had no wish to pay over part of the spoils to the Maldivian Government and set up a Suvadive Republic.

In 1960 the British completed negotaions for the airfield with the Maldivian Government and agreed to do their best to bring about a reconciliation between the Maldivian Government and the Adduans. They have bee unable to do this – or, as the Maldivians say, they have been unwilling to impose reasonable terms on the Adduans. In April, with British agreement, an attempt was made by the Maldivian Government to restore its authority in the Addu atoll, but its offers were ejected after hostile and violent demonstrations (for which an earlier show of force by the Maldivians was partly to blame). This failure led to the anti-British demonstations by the Maldivians at Male.

The Commonwealth Relations Office says only that it hopes that negotiations to sttle the dispute can be held more sucessfully. This seems at present merely a pious hope.

SETTLEMENT IN MALDIVES IS. DISPUTE

A further and – if all goes well – final stage in the long drawn and at times ludicrous dispute between Britain and the Maldive Islands has been reached in talks which Mr. Sandys, the Commonwealth and Colonial Secretary, had on September 7 and 8 with Mr. Ibrahim Nasir, the Maldivian Prime Minister, at male, the capital of the Maldives. The Commonwealth Relations office yesterday announced an agreement with the Maldivian government that the authority of the Maldivian government should be restblished on Addu Atoll, where the British air staging post at Gan Island is situated.

The Adduans revolted in 1958 against the authority of the government at Male, and the British government were accused by the maldivian government of abetting this revolts. They did not however, recognize the rebels. The present agreement provides that the authority of the Maldivian government should be reestablished as soon as pracitcable and in any event not later than December 31. The Maldivian Government has “agreed to grant an unqualified pardon and indemnity to all the inhabitants of Addu Atoll in respect of all acts connected with or arising from the revolt”.

TAX COMPLAINT

At the same time a British request for facilities for the BBC to operate a relay station on Hithadoo Island in the Addu Atoll has also been agreed too.

What is lacking in this announcement is any sign that the inhabitants of Addu Atoll  have themselves accepted it. Previously they objected to what they regarded as unfair taxation b the Maldivian government and they resisted a forcible attempt to impose the Maldivian government’s authority. They might do so again, but the agreement that a BBC station will be established in their part of the Maldives may operate as some  indirect guarantee that the British government will see that they are fairly treated.

For the moment the agreement is at least an advance in the right direction from the prolonged wrangle between the British and the Maldivian governments, during which it became necessary in November 1962, for a British frigate to remain off the island of Dungu, near Male, to protect the British representative and other British subjects.

STEEL LOADED ON CANOES

With no machinery available, picks and shovels were used to clear the site ready for 700 tons of perforated steel sheets used for the runway. Transport difficulties were formidable since Huele had no port facilities, no harbour, and a dangerous coral reef surrounds it.

The ship bringing the steel for the runway had to anchor a mile away, then lighter brought loads to withn a few hundered yards of the island, but the last stage had to be covered by native canoe. As there was no accomodation on the island the RAF men brought  a prefabricated bungalow with them from Gan, which is the nearest RAF station.

R.A.F. IN MALDIVES

Two flights of the R.A.F on September in 1963 Regiment are being flown from Singapore to Gan, the R.A.F staging post, on the Maldive Islands in the Indian Ocean. Earlier in the month, Mr. Sandy’s, the Commonwealth and Colonial Secretary, had talks with the Maldivian Prime Minister, Mr Ibrahim Nasir. Afterwards it was announced that agreement had been reached that the authority of the Maldivian Government should be re-established on Addu atoll, where there had been some unrest. It is against the background of this agreement that the R.A.F men are being flown there, as a precautionary measure. It was stated in Whitehall last night that their move was “entirely unrelated” to the Indonesian-Malaysia situation.

R.A.F Reinforces Maldives Base

Colombo, Sept. 25 1963 Britain  agreed to take the necessary steps to re-establish the authority of the Maldivian Government not later than next December 31 in Addu Atoll, the most southerly atoll of the Maldive group according to a Note issued by the British high commission in Colombo. The note said that as a precautionary measure an extra flight of the Royal Air Force Regiment had been flown to Gan, an island in the atoll a few miles south of the equator and 600 miles south west of Ceylon. The flight would reinforce small detachments already on the island, on which a new air base to provide an R.A.F staging post between Aden and Singapore was completed about 3 years ago.

The note said the steps were being taken as a result of an agreement signed on September 18 by Mr Sandy’s, the Commonwealth relations and colonial secretary and Mr. Ibrahim Nasir, the Maldives Islands Prime Minister.

Gan was equidistant from Singapore and Aden, being about 2000 miles from each. There ha been intermittent trouble for several years between the Addu Atoll islanders and the Government of the Maldive Islands at Male. Mr Sandy’s recently flew from Singapore to the Maldives for several days “on a fishing holiday” before returning to see Malaysia into being. 

MALDIVES DISSIDENT CHOOSES EXILE: SETTLEMENT OVER R.A.F. STAGING POST

The voluntary exile of the former rebel leader on Addu Atoll had been one result of the settlement made   by Mr. Sandys, the secretary if /State of Commonwealth Relations and the Colonies, in the Maldive Island dispute.

The agreement provided for the re-establishment on Addu which included Gan the I.E. staging post) of the Maldivian Government’s authority. The Maldivian Government agreed to grant a pardon and indemnity to all the inhabitants, but Mr. Abdullah Afif, the “president” of the “Suvadive Republic” decided not to put the matter to the test. At his own request, he was being taken in the British frigate H.M.S Looch Lomond to the Seychelles. His family was accompanying him. The commonwealth relations office did not know what he would do there, but until it was established whether he would be able to support himself and he was expected to be the guest of the British government. The British political adviser in Gan meanwhile explained to the people the implications of the agreement. At the height of the Cyprus troubles Archbishop Makarios was for a time the compulsory guest of the British government in the Seychelles. The house where he lived, however, would not be available for Mr. Affif.

Maldives Protest to Britain

On October 4^th 1963 Britain’s transfer of Mr. Abdullah Afif, the former rebel leader on Addu Atoll, to the Seychelles in a frigate at his own request earlier in the week a  was stated as a violation of interference in the internal affairs of the Maldive Islands, the Maldivian Parliament declared in a resolution passed that night. The Parliament was stated to have endorsed “the firm stand taken by the Maldivian Government on this issue”.

The September Anglo-Maldivian agreement provided for the re-establishment on Addu (which includes Gan the R.A.F staging post) of the Maldivian Government’s authority. The Maldivian Government agreed to grant a pardon and indemnity to all inhabitants. However, Mr. Affif, the “president” of the “Suvadive Republic”, decided not to put this to the test. He and his family were taken on board a British frigate.

MALDIVES SEEK TO REVISE AGREEMENT: INDEPENDENCE REQUEST REPORTED

On October 30 1963  awkward diplomatic situation aroused.  On October 29^th Commonwealth Relations Office coyly, if not reluctantly, confirmed that a communication had been received from Ibrahim Nasir, the Prime Minister of the Maldivian Government. That was under study, and no more was said in London- but behind this simple announcement lies a tale. The fact is that the Maldives Government wants to revise its agreement with Britain of February 14, 1960, under which Britain obtained the right to establish the airfield on Gan Island in Addu atoll, and to establish a radio station on Hitadooo Island – both in Addu atoll, a group of islands at the southern end of the Maldives.

The agreement served its purpose at the time, but left the Maldive Islands with an anomalous status, which was always likely to give trouble one day.

Article 1 of the 1960 agreement confirms that the British Government’s responsibility to protect “the composite sovereign and independent state of the Maldive islands” shall continue. Under Article 5 the British Government furthermore “agree to undertake on behalf of the Maldivian Government the conduct of their political relations with other countries and with international organisations….” Clearly enough the Maldive Islands got independence in name, but not in fact.

AMNESTY PROMISES

According to reports from Colombo, the representative of the Maldivian Government issued a statement on Monday, saying that the Maldivian Government wants the Maldives to be established as “a fully independent and sovereign state”.

The new move follows talks which Mr. Sandys, Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations and the Colonies, had with Ibrahim Nasir, when Mr. Sandys visited the Maldives in September. It was then agreed in effect that the British Government would back the Maldivian Government in a long-standing dispute with rebellious inhabitants of the Addu atoll, who were however, promised a full amnesty for having to set up a “Suvadive Republic” of their own. The British Government, through the agreement in September, obtained facilities for the B.B.C to operate a relay station on Hitadoo Island.

The Maldivian statement now says that these facilities will not be granted, unless the British Government agrees to their request independence. This could, however, be an attempt not so much to end the 1960 agreement, which would leave the Maldives defenceless, as to bring pressure upon the British Government to implement the agreement of last September by including the inhabitants of the Addu atoll to accept the Maldivian Government’s authority by the agreed date – December 31. The people of the atoll are evidently reluctant to trust the amnesty. Rather than trust himself to do it, their leader, Mr. Affif, was taken at the beginning of this month on a British frigate into voluntary exile in the Seychelles.

Analysis of Maldives Call for Independence

Up with the Maldives on Wednesday October 30^th 1963 fearing that it might be overlooked as the tide bringing Asian independence recedes, another little sultanate had filled in the form claiming its rights as a sovereign state. The Maldivian Prime Minister, Mr. Ibrahim Nasir, had asked for this emancipation in a letter to Mr. Sandys, and had said that the further claim made on his territories – an atoll for a B.B.C relay station would not be met until independence was granted. So the string of islands, 500 miles from north to south inhabited by more than  90,000 people who were mostly fishermen, was the latest aspirant to membership of the United Nations.

The agreement reached with the Maldive Government in 1960, after the R.A.F station on Gan Island had been set up, provided for British conduct of the Maldives external relations. By thus leaving the Maldivian free to conduct their own commercial and cultural relations, which were never likely to be very extensive, it was thought that all would go smoothly, though another article in agreement admittedly described the Maldives as a sovereign state. It seems that fashion had inspired this Government to strike its own stance in the world. It perhaps  wanted to set up embassies in Washington, London, and Moscow, or send delegates to international conferences in Geneva, or join in hurling abuse at the imperialists at the kind of conference called for the purpose.

One thing was obvious. In establishing its staging post there at all R.A.F was bringing with it the wind of change. A separatist movement very quickly sprang up among those inhabitants employed on building the airfield. British Maldive relations, never very easy to pin down, came under strain when the leader of the “United Suvadive Republic” willy-nilly earned British protection. After Mr. Sandy’s visit in the September month, this knotty little problem appeared to have been settled at long last. Mr Afif, the rebel leader, preferred the safety of exile in the Seychelles to the amnesty promised by his own Government and had already left. Adding a flag at the United Nations could help the sense of prestige a good deal, of course, even if that was about as far as the international assertion would go. The present ruler would find an international identity of soothing to these troubles in the islands. For the  year  1962 or more the British representative accredited to the Maldivian Government had enjoyed the protection of a frigate for fear the wrath the Maldivian might do  harm. It was an odd little cradle of anti – colonialism if that was what it was a comedy by any standard, but for the geographical position of the islands which mass them suitable for staging posts. Since the incursion of the R.A.F and B.B.C brings economic benefits to none too rich islanders a fresh agreement would be possible.

Maldives Criticism of Britain

Relations between Britain and the Maldive islands in November 11^th 1963 were reported as steadily deteriorating, according to official Maldivian sources in Colombo. This attitude was believed to be related to the delay by Britain in granting full independence. Another issue was the establishment of an R.A.F staging base on Gan Island, in Addu atoll. Recent events have dispelled hopes that the recent visit by Mr. Sandy’s, the commonwealth relations and colonial secretary, to the islands would help improve the atmosphere was the hope..

One of the irritants in the situation was apparently the decision by the British authorities to exile the rebel leader Afif from Addu to the Seychelles. The Maldives Prime Minister, Ibrahim Nasir, had attacked the decision, and the Majilis (Parliament) unanimously adopted a resolution condemning it as “direct interference in the internal affairs of the Maldive islands and a violation of international regulations”. The Maldives Government, which had promised an amnesty, demanded that Afif and other Addu rebel leaders be temporarily resettled elsewhere in the Maldives for a period of about 6 months. Thos had been described by the Government as an “essential prerequisite” before other terms of agreement could be effected.

MR. ROUNTHWAITE TO LEAVE MALDIVES

Mr. D.C Rounthwaite, on April 16^th 1964 was reported that the British political adviser in Addu atoll in the Maldive Islands, whose recall was requested by the Maldivian Government, had completed his task and was to resume his duties in the Commonwealth Relations Office. This decision had been communicated to Mr. Ibrahim Nasir, the Maldivian Prime Minister. It was surprising, since Mr. Rounthwaite returned to Addu atoll only on Saturday after 10 days’ leave and consultations in London. Mr. Rounthwaite was regarded in Whitehall as having done good work there, but Mr. Rasheed, the Maldivian Minister of Home Affairs, was reported from Colombo to have objected to his recent activities which were alleged to have harmed relations between Britain and the Maldives.

The fact was that Mr. Rounthwaite has had an extremely hard task, and appeared to have made progress in it. He had to supervise the carrying out of promise by the British Government in effect to induce the inhabitants of Addu atoll, where Britain maintained an air staging post, to accept the authority of the Maldivian Government at Male, from whom they had rebelled. The British Government had invited Mr. Ibrahim Nasir to come to London for further negotiations. The allegations against Mr. Rounthwaite were certainly not accepted, but his withdrawal had hope to ease the way for further talks.

COMPLAINT FROM MALDIVES IS REJECTED.

There was a categorical and complete denial  from the Commonwealth Relations Office  on September 16^th 1964 of the accusations reported on Monday from Colombo that British officers were “intimidating Maldivian workers” engaged in construction work on Gan Island staging post. According to the reports, the Maldivian Government asked the British Government to endure that the alleged intimidation should cease, and alleged that British officers were intimidating the workers to create dissension between them and the Maldivian Government.

This was not the first time that somewhat wild complaints against British actions in the Maldives had come from those remote atolls via Colombo. The explanation lies, largely at least, in understandable but chronic suspiciousness on the part of the leaders of an underdeveloped territory, who had throughout felt themselves much at a disadvantage in negotiating with the British Government. Their suspicions had been all too easily aroused, at least since March. In 1959, when the inhabitants of the Addu atoll at the southern end of the Maldives broke with the Maldivian Government at Male, the capital and set up a “Suvadive Republic” of their own.

The Queen’s tour of Maldives fish Market

Male, Maldive Islands, March 13 – The Queen arrived on March 14^th 1972  on the first visit by a reigning British monarch to the string of 2000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean. She landed after a restful four day cruise from the Malaysian holiday island of Penang, the last stop of her South  East Asian tour. Accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, she was greeted by President Amir Ibrahim Nasir, who headed the Muslim Republic of 114, 000 people. Most of the capital’s 12000 inhabitants were out in force to welcome the Queen. Later she was to tour the colourful fish market and watch a football match between a Maldivian side and the crew of the Britannia. Britain and the Maldives had been associated since 1887 when the islands became a British protectorate.

MALDIVES PRIME MINISTER BANISHED TO ATOLL

On March 11, 1975. Mr. Ahmed Zaki, Prime Minister of the Maldive Islands which included the RAF staging post at Gan, was arrested and banished to a remote atoll, according to reports reaching London. It was confirmed that Mr Zaki, who was reappointed to office only 12 days before was removed on order of Mr Amir Ibrahim Nasir, the President. Another Government official, Mr Ahmed Jaleel, Chief of Protocol, was also been arrested and banished in what seems to have been a bloodless coup carried out the by the President under Article 37 of the Maldives constitution. This however, was an obscurely, worded clause which allows the president “in the event of emergencies confronting the state to proclaim temporary orders that do not contravene the constitution”. No other explanation for the arrest was been given. But they followed a report in the state run Ceylon Daily News headed “Untoward Happenings in the Maldives”.

And they had happened, co-incidentally or not, only a week before talks were due to begin in the capital, Male, on the future of Gan, which the RAF were due to relinquish under the terms of the British Government’s defence review.

Maldives Became a Republic

On January 9^th it was reported that the Maldive Islands, which became the world’s youngest Republic on Thursday. They were so far off the trade routes that history it was said neglected  the country  for centuries. The people were evidently converted to Islam in the 12^th century. Between 1941, when the chronicles began, and 1952 there were 92 sultans and reigning sultanas. It was a remarkable tribute to the personal popularity of Amir Amin Didi, the new president, that after so long a history his recommendation that the sultanate be converted into a republic was been accepted almost unanimously. It was also significant that Amin Didi himself belonged to the family which inherited sultanship since 1759, and he would have been elected sultan without opposition had he not declined the honour.. 

Maldives defence tightened after attempted coup

On April 29^th 1980 international newspapers reported that President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom of the Maldives and Mr. Fathulla Jameel, his Foreign Minister, had confirmed an attempted coup against the Government in the strategic Indian Ocean Republic. Western diplomats in Colombo accredited to Male, the capital of the islands 450 miles south-west of Sri Lanka, reported in recent weeks that visitors’ baggage was being intensively checked and there was a strong armed presence at the airport and in the capital. The foreign ministry in Colombo confirmed that the Maldivian authorities have been in touch with Sri Lanka officials since the first suspicions of a possible coup. Reports from the Maldives also said that the authorities were keeping pleasure craft under close surveillance for possible gun and ammunition running.

In Colombo Mr. Ahmed Jabir, the Maldivian Charge d’Affaired, called on the Foreign Ministry. Later the ministry said the Maldivian were taking measures to prevent any mercenaries coming in as tourists.

Poll wins by Maldives leader likely

The Maldives took the first step towards electing a new leader, with the President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom favoured to retain power. Parliament was voting for a single candidate who must win a majority in a public referendum to be declared president for the next five years. Under the country’s constitution, Parliament’s 48 members  40 elected and eight nominated by the president  may chose anyone in or outside the house. There were no parties in the Maldives, an Islamic nation of about 160, 000 people, and campaigning for the presidency was said to banned. Mr. Gayoom, was elected in 1978, was an Islamic scholar and ended his present and first term on November 11. A government statement on Sunday gave no indication of when the referendum on Parliament’s choice would be held. Political sources said they expected President Gayoom to win more than 28 votes he gained in Parliament in 1978, when a 92 per cent referendum vote confirmed him in office.

Since taking power, President Gayoom, who was 46, had made major changes in the economy of country’s 2000 coral islands, embarking on a programme to develop tourism.

The devout president, who was educated in Egypt, has linked the development with preserving the Maldives’ Islamic ideals. He had stated that he wanted to introduce constitutional changes to bring more political freedom to a system where the president rules with near-absolute authority.