President Adama Barrow has delivered his maiden Eid-Fitr (Koriteh) message 2017 calling on all Gambians to maintain the tolerance, discipline, integrity and hard work cultivated during this holy month.
Below is the full message;
Fellow Gambians,
As we mark the end of the Holy month of Ramadan, we join millions of Muslims around the world to celebrate the glorious feast of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Eid is an opportunity for us to reaffirm our values of gratitude, compassion, and generosity and to give thanks for the spiritual renewal and many blessings received throughout the holy month.
As we celebrate the day, it is important to reflect on the teachings and significance of this auspicious day.
Eid-ul-Fitr is not only about remembering Allah and offering gratitude to him but it is also a day we are reminded of our religious duty of sharing and caring for one another. It is evidently clear that Islam has set a very high standard for the spirit of brotherhood, unity, love and support for one another.
Fellow Gambians
Moral and ethical values prescribed by our great religion, Islam, must be brought to bear on our attitudes and efforts as we collectively seek to build the new Gambia based on rule of law, tolerance, and devotion to nation building.
With these values, we will be able to achieve the much needed change of attitude to restore this country to its former glory – a Gambia with a vibrant economy which works for everyone and leaves no one behind especially our youths and women. We may not be endowed with natural resources but our Human Resource is our strength. We cannot therefore afford to be divided, not according to religion or tribe.
Unity is our strength and this must be embraced and cherished by all Gambians.
My government is firmly committed to that unity which is the bedrock of our collective national security and identity.
To venerable religious leaders, let us continue to pray for sustainable peace in The Gambia and for Muslims and humanity at large, who are suffering either from maltreatment, hardship or warfare.
To families and friends, as you come together this Eid to share food and presents, let’s think about and pray for a better Gambia, a Gambia we deserve and The Gambia we must build together.
Finally, I call on all Gambians to maintain the tolerance, discipline, integrity and hard work cultivated during this holy month.
I once again, wish you all a happy and peaceful.
Eid. Eid Mubarak.
