Veep urges Muslims to use Ramadan to forge unity

Accra, Sept. 19, GNA - Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama, on Tuesday urged Muslims to use the period of Ramadan (Holy month of fasting), to rededicate themselves to the values that unite them.

"I wish that we rededicate ourselves to the values that hold us together and there will be no limit to what we can achieve as a nation."

Vice President Mahama was speaking at a reception organized by the US Embassy in Accra for a cross-section of the Muslim community to break their fast (Istaar).

Muslim leaders, including the Chief Imam Sheik Nuhu Sharabutu, Maulvi Wahab Adam, Ameer and Leader of the Ahmadiyya Mission in Ghana, the Greater Accra Regional Minister Sheik IC Quaye and members of the diplomatic corps attended the reception instituted by the US Embassy in 2001 to commemorate the September 11 terrorist attack on the world super power, which was orchestrated by Alqaeda.

"Islam in Ghana is peaceful. We believe sincerely in the goodness of the teachings of the Holy Prophet. The challenge is to reflect it in our daily lives," he noted.

Vice President Mahama asked Muslims to uphold the value of social harmony, stressing, "the leadership of the country must go the extra mile and put all hands on deck in unity."

He outlined the spiritual significance of fasting, saying a number of religions including Hindu and Christianity were part of the universal practice.

"We are also informed that Jesus developed spiritual strength to resist temptation after 40 days of fasting in the desert. To a Muslim, however, it is not just avoiding eating and drinking."

Vice President Mahama said Ramadan was a time of sincere love for mankind and a period for one to renew a sense of hope as he or she sought the face of Allah. Ms Pamela Bridgewater, US Ambassador said Ramadan was a sacred time of refreshing and consideration of the many ties binding the Muslim community and the US.

"Ramadan gives occasion to Muslims to focus on doing good, donating time and items to those in need in local communities." Ms Bridgewater observed that Muslims and non-Muslims in the US shared the values of tolerance and

coice. Sheik Armiyao, a Muslims leader, said Ramadan represented global efforts against violence, respect for common humanity and religious freedom. 19 Sept. 07