Government has paid tribute to the Muslims in Ghana for their contribution to the country’s peace, development and democracy.
The applause comes as the Upper East region joins the rest of the country Friday to bring down the curtain on the observance of this year’s holy Month of Ramadan with Eid-ul-Fitr prayers.
“On this occasion of Ramadan,” said the Upper East Regional Minister, Rockson Bukari, “the Government of Ghana under the leadership of His Excellency, Nana Akufo-Addo, congratulates all Muslims for the feat achieved. Government is aware of the invaluable contributions of Muslims to Ghana’s peace and democracy.”
To the Islamic worshippers he addressed in the regional capital, Bolgatanga, the Regional Minister also emphasised the need to remain pure in the post-Ramadan months ahead in order to sustain the benefits gained during the just-ended fasting month.
“Now that we have used the period to purify ourselves and drawn closer to God, it is important that we sustain these gains in our lives throughout the year. That is the only way our identity as Muslims can stand the test of time and we will be able to reap the benefits of the month. We should, therefore, guard against attitudes that can derail the course of our renewed faith in Allah,” he urged.
Let’s Reject Divisive Tendencies— Government
The crowd dispersed from the NAFAC Grounds, venue for the prayer session, also reminded of the role expected of everyone in ensuring that the country’s youths “reject tendencies that divide Muslims and other people.”
“In a plural society where some people mistaken the principles of Islam and resort to extremism, Ramadan reminds us of the need for true believers to rather cultivate the virtues of tolerance and inclusion. For the period reduces us all to levels that minimise the natural instincts to show power and physical strength but rather resort to prayer and goodwill,” the Regional Minister noted.
He added: “This year, government, through the Ministry of Inner Cities and Zongo Development, will train Muslim youth in vocational skills and provide educational infrastructure and scholarships. The Zongo Development Fund will also support tourism promotion to preserve historical, cultural and natural heritage in zongo communities in the country. I wish to appeal to all Muslims to take advantage of the many interventions being rolled out to transform the economy and ensure equal opportunities for all Ghanaians.”
Obey Authorities— Chief Imam to Muslims
The Upper East Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Yussif Adam, wrapped up the event with an appeal to his flock to continue to obey authorities.
“Irrespective of which party is in power, our leadership will always accord respect to the government of the day. That is what the religion says we should do. Let’s give to the needy in this period as much we can so we can get back from Allah as much we want,” said the Chief Imam.
Whilst wishing everyone in the region a peaceful and prosperous Ramadan season, Alhaji Adam also acknowledged all those who donated cash and items towards the fasting period as well as the security agencies for providing security at the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer gathering.
Source: Ghana/Starrfmonline.com/103.5/Edward Adeti
