Maldives defence chief retires after 39 year career, new chief sworn-in
The retired General has served the Maldivian State for more than 35 years and was awarded the 2021 State Service Award.
By
Aishath Fareeha Abdulla,
Fathmath Ahmed Shareef
Lt Gen Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef, chief of Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), retired on Wednesday evening after 39 years of service, and Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, the Vice Chief of Defence Force has been appointed as the New Chief.
Abdul Raheem retired from the defence force with honours on Wednesday after reaching the age of 60 as per the defence forces Act. At a special ceremony held at the army headquarters, Abdul Raheem was given an honorary guard in his honour.
Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon handed over a special letter from the Chief of Army Staff and a decoration board symbolizing his sincere service to Abdul Raheem.
Vice Chief of Defense Force, Brigadier General Ibrahim Hilmy handed over the letter and symbolic card of retirement to Abdul Raheem.
Abdul Raheem joined the army on 18 February 1985. A video presentation of his long service was played at the ceremony. The Ministry noted that he has rendered invaluable services in various fields of the military for the advancement and development of the army. He has also completed many trainings in Maldives and abroad during his service in the army. He has held many staff appointments and command appointments in the MNDF.
These include:
-
Chief of Defense Force and Vice Chief of Defense Force
-
Commander of various Army units, Co-Commander, and Commander of Area Command
-
The position of Army Spokesperson
-
Financial Responsibility for MNDF
-
On 3 November 1988, he was involved in the special operation conducted by the army after the dangerous terror attack
-
He served as the field commander of the special operation conducted by the Maldivian Army in connection with the 26 December 2004 tsunami disaster
-
In 2011, he served as the field commander of the special operation conducted by the army to hold the 17th SAARC Summit in Addu
-
Served as a field commander during a special operation carried out by the army in G.A.Maamendhoo, where permanent housing was last confirmed for those who lost their homes during the tsunami
-
He served as Vice Chief of Defense Force in the Army's special operations in Covid-19
-
Abdul Raheem has been awarded 12 medals and 11 colours for his dedicated service, achievements and strong military discipline
-
He has served the Maldivian State for more than 35 years and will be awarded the 2021 State Service Award
While serving as Vice Chief of Defense Force, Abdul Raheem was appointed Chief of Defense Force in November last year after President Mohammed Muizzu took office.
With the retirement of the decorated Lt Gen Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy has now been appointed as the Chief of the Defence Force.
President Mohammed Muizzu handed over his appointment letter to Hilmy at a ceremony held at the President’s Office on Thursday.
Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas has been appointed as the Vice Chief of Defence Force.
