UDP leader Ousainou on Thursday afternoon sent Christmas greetings to Christians as they prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the first political leader to do so.
Christmas is celebrated every December 25 and UDP leader Darboe in a short message wished Christians in the country a “Merry Christmas and best wishes for the festive Season”.
“Christmas is about spending time with family, friends and loved ones and it is about creating happy memories that will last a lifetime. This Christmas, I pray that we all take the time to cherish and celebrate what is important in our lives. We must be grateful for being alive and for being in good health. But most of all, we must as a society, exercise religious tolerance, embrace each other as one and take the opportunity during this Festive Season to share love and kindness to those who need it the most,” Mr Darboe said.
He said elsewhere: “This year has been a tough year and many have lost loved ones as a result of COVID-19. As we continue to pray for those who have departed, and those who are sick and in bed, we must continue to stay safe and remember that this virus knows no boundaries.
“May the special occasion of Christmas bring peace, joy and good will to you, your families and your loved ones. May the Christmas end the present year on a cheerful note and make way for a fresh and bright New Year in anticipation that next Christmas will be brighter, better and more joyous for many.
“Wishing you and your families peace, good health, happiness and prosperity in the coming year.
“On behalf of the Executive and members of the United Democratic party and from my family to yours, a very Merry Christmas to you all once again!”
