The Muslims Stakeholders Forum for the Empowerment and Development of the Zongo Youth of Ghana wishes to congratulate the Muslim Community in Ghana, in particular, and around the World in general, for completing the 29-30 day fasting of the 2024 Ramadan successfully. We extend to all Muslims around the World special greetings and prayers for long lives in good health and sustainable prosperity on this joyful occasion of Eid ul-Fitr.
Eid al-Fitr is one of the important days in the Islamic calendar and is characterized by compassion, gratitude, and generosity. This joyous moment serves as more than just a celebration marking the end of Ramadan, but also a time of happiness to be shared with family and friends. This sacred time, observed by Muslims worldwide, holds invaluable lessons that extend beyond religious boundaries and resonate with the core values of unity, compassion, and cooperation.
As we celebrate Eid, let us carry forward the lessons learned during Ramadan, striving to uphold righteousness and eschew the sins and errors of the past. Let us use the practice of the gatherings of Eid as reminders of our unity in diversity as we approach the 2024 general elections in Ghana. Regardless of our differences, let this period serve as a testament to our ability to come together as a nation, embracing our diversity and working towards a common goal. Let us come together to fight a common enemy: Poverty and Illiteracy.
Eid presents an opportunity for us to reconnect with our loved ones, both near and distant. By coming together in celebration, we foster deeper connections, understanding each other’s joys, sorrows, and aspirations. Through these gatherings, we cultivate empathy, compassion, and unity within our communities. Let us maintain this practice throughout our lives. We urge all sundry to let the following Hadith reflect in our lives.
The Messenger of Allah said: ‘Whoever relieves a Muslim of some worldly distress, Allah will relieve him of some of the distress of the Day of Resurrection, and whoever conceals (the faults of) a Muslim, Allah will conceal him (his faults) in this world and the Day of Resurrection. And whoever relieves the burden of a destitute person, Allah will relieve him in this world and the next. Allah will help His slave so long as His slave helps his brother. Whoever follows a path in pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to paradise. No people gather in one of the houses of Allah, reciting the Book of Allah and teaching it to one another, but the angels will surround them, tranquility will descend upon them, mercy will envelop them, and Allah will mention them to those who are with Him. And whoever is hindered because of his bad deeds, his lineage will be of no avail to him.”Bukhari.
We call upon the office of the National Chief Imam to play a pivotal role in resolving conflicts, such as the annual dispute over the sighting of the Ramadan moon. Through continued dialogue and mutual respect, we will find lasting solutions to these longstanding issues.
We urge the Government to consider the proposals of the Ghana National Muslim Conference on the passing of the ANTI LGBTQ+ bill, as we call on all the political parties to carefully look at the policy recommendations provided to them by religious and traditional institutions to be considered in their manifestos.
Elections are a vital aspect of our democratic process, but they need not be marred by violence or confrontation. As the December 7th election approaches, let us exercise our democratic right to vote responsibly and choose leaders who prioritize the interests of Ghana and its people. The interest of Ghana transcends individual ambitions or party affiliations. Our collective welfare should always take precedence over partisan politics.
Political leaders must refrain from denigrating State institutions such as the National or Regional Peace Councils and the Judiciary, but use these and other legitimate channels to resolve their differences. Upholding the integrity of these institutions is paramount to the preservation of democracy and the rule of law.
Let all the political parties understand that “Winning political power does not necessarily mean and translate into development”. It is the application of the right policies that meet the aspirations of the good people of Ghana that translates into Development. In that regard, we favor a Government that works with all stakeholders for the good of the people of Ghana.
As we celebrate Eid, let us fervently pray for peace and reconciliation in areas marred by conflict, such as Bawku in Ghana and Gaza in Palestine. May the hearts of feuding factions soften, paving the way for compromise and lasting peace.
Finally, Ghana is the only country we have. Let us control our emotions and guard our actions and speeches so that we do not mar the peaceful ambience we enjoy. We must not do anything or allow our parochial interests to supersede our collective interest in achieving sustainable peace. It is only in a Peaceful Environment that Development takes place.
Let us cherish and safeguard our peace and security with the same fervour as we do our religious beliefs. These fundamental pillars of our society must never be taken for granted.
May the divine blessings gained through fasting, prayer, and acts of kindness guide us towards a journey of peace and righteousness.
God Bless Our Homeland Ghana and Make it great and Strong!
Co-authored by:
Shaibu Sulleyman – Curator of Shared Voices, writer and technologist.
Khuzaima Mohammed Osman – Eminent Member and Chairman of the Finance and Fundraising Committee of the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council, The National Peace Council, Executive Secretary of the Tijjaniya Muslims of Ghana, Human Rights, ADR and Islamic Affairs Consultant.
This article was first published in April, 2024. It is now archived here on theshaibu.com to preserve its message and make it accessible to a wider audience.