Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley yesterday joined with the Muslim community in celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr at the Mucurapo Street Mosque in San Fernando, on Sunday.
In delivering a short message, Rowley said, “We in Trinidad and Tobago must be grateful to Allah, to Almighty God, that we are not subject to what others are subjected to. We recognise Eid-ul-Fitr, we recognise our Muslim population and we recognise our nation of T&T.”
The Prime Minister who was joined by Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein in worship, thanked members for the opportunity, “to be here sitting and participating, imbibing and for leaving me with the inspiration of the sermon.”
In a release from the Office of the Prime Minister, Rowley also showered the blessings of Allah upon our Muslim brothers and sister on this auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.
He said the greatest significance of this special day of rejoicing is the tradition of freely sharing a portion of what one has with those who are needy and vulnerable.
He said following the month of Ramadan, the Muslim community would have gathered to offer thanks to Allah for having the strength and will to observe the fast during the holy month.
“Having done this, on Eid-ul-Fitr, everyone who has fasted may face the year ahead with renewed strength, greater understanding and universal goodwill.”
“Islam teaches us to care. It obliges the strong and wealthy to help the weak and poor without regard for recognition or reward. Islam, like the other faiths we publicly recognise in T&T also follows this tenet. Therefore, perhaps the greatest significance of this special day of rejoicing is the tradition of freely sharing a portion of what one has with those who are needy and vulnerable.
He said at this time the best of human nature and depth of good character, of which we all are capable, is demonstrated by the outpouring of generosity towards one another.
“The fast of Ramadan shows how it feels to be hungry, Eid-ul-Fitr shows the real meaning of selflessness, goodwill and community.”
