By Mohamed Amin Didi, the first President of the Maldives, served from 1 January 1953 to 21 August 1953. Born on 20 July 1910, he was the son of Athireegey Ahmed Dhoshimeynaa Kilegefaan and Roanugey Aishath Didi. He hailed from the prestigious Huraa dynasty on his father’s side.
Amin Didi pursued his education abroad, attending St. Joseph’s College in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in 1920 and later continuing his studies in India before returning to the Maldives in 1929. Upon his return, he held several key positions in the government, including Chief Officer of Customs, Head of the Maldivian Post Office, Minister of Trade, and a member of the first Maldivian Parliament. From 1946 to 1953, he also served as the principal of Majeediyya School.
Amin Didi was a pioneer in Maldivian politics, leading the first political party, Dhivehi Rayyithunge Muthagaddim Party (People’s Progress Party). His leadership brought about significant change when, with the support of the people, he abolished the 812-year-old sultanate and became the first President of the Maldives on 1 January 1953.
Although the Parliament considered Amin Didi for the role of Sultan after the passing of Sultan Abdul Majeed Didi, Amin Didi famously rejected the crown, advocating for a republic instead. A referendum was held, and the Maldives became a Republic. However, the Republic was short-lived. While President Amin Didi was in Ceylon for medical treatment, a revolution took place in Malé, and Vice President Ibrahim Didi was appointed head of the government in his absence.
Upon his return, Amin Didi was taken to Dhoonidhoo Island under supervision for his safety. Secret communications with Ibrahim Hilmy Didi led to an attempt to regain power, but this failed, and the people of Malé, enraged, nearly beat him to death. Amin Didi, along with others involved in the attempt, was tried and sentenced to exile. He was banished to Kaafu Gaafaru, where his health declined.
On 19 January 1954, Mohamed Amin Didi passed away on Vihamanaa Fushi Island (now Kurumba Village). Though his time as president was brief, his contributions to Maldivian democracy, women’s rights, and education remain respected to this day. His family continues to play a significant role in the country’s political and diplomatic spheres, with his grandson, Ameen Faisal, serving as National Security Advisor, and his granddaughter as the Maldivian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
Amin Didi is fondly remembered as a key figure in the history of the Maldives, known for his courage and vision in shaping the nation’s democratic foundations.