Muslims Mark Eid-El-Adha

Muslims in Ghana joined their counterparts worldwide to celebrate Eid-el- Adha (Festival of Sacrifice). The significance of the festival, which Muslims believe was first celebrated by Annabi Ibrahim (Prophet Abraham) is to promote the spirit of sharing and giving among Muslims and their neighbours.

President J.A. Kufuor and the Vice President, Alhaji Aliu Mahama joined thousands of worshipers including Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, Muslim leaders, Chiefs, Imams, Assembly Members and ordinary citizens at the Independence Square in Accra to mark the occasion.

In his goodwill massage, President Kufuor called on Muslims to uphold the virtues of sacrifice and promote peace in their communities and the country in general. He said Muslims must be tolerant of other religions and embrace the spirit of cooperation and respect the rights of individuals as required by the Constitution. He said Ghana has enjoyed relative peace in West Africa. "However, we cannot take peace for granted and the best way to maintain peace is to ensure eternal vigilance".

He said the law enforcement agencies are being empowered to fight crime and injustice in the country. He therefore urged Muslims to assist the government in fighting crime by giving maximum cooperation to the police to allow law and order to prevail. "Muslim Communities should assist the police by cultivating a culture to expose criminals in their midst". President Kufuor pledged the commitment of his government to bring equitable development to every community in the country. He said the government has been honest to the people and that the nation would achieve prosperity once it emerges from the current difficulties. He urged Muslims to avoid conflicts and pray for peace in Dabgon.

The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, in his sermon, asked Muslims to renew their commitment and loyalty to Allah. "As you sacrifice animals, remember to rededicate your selves to the true worship of Allah in true obedience and complete submission to him." He said Muslims should aspire to achieve righteousness by being truthful. He drew their attention to the need for national unity as an essential tool for progress and development. Sheikh Sharubutu thanked the government for its efforts in the search of lasting peace in Dabgon and hoped that the recent reconciliation conference sponsored by the Konrad Adenaur Foundation in Akosombo would lead to peace.