Regional News of Sunday, 1 February 2004

Source: GNA

Maintain spirit of Eid - Horner-Sam urge Muslims

Takoradi, Feb. 1, GNA - Alhaji Abdulai Saeed, Imam of the Moslem community in Takoradi, on Sunday led an open air prayers at the PWD Park to commemorate Eid Adha, the Moslem festival of sacrifice. Prayers were said for Allah's blessings, guidance and mercy for the country's political, religious and traditional leaders for peace and prosperity in the coming years.

Alhaji Saeed urged Moslems to exhibit love, patience and tolerance to enhance peaceful co-existence in their communities.

Madam Sophia Horner-Sam, Deputy Western Regional Minister, addressing the congregation stressed that the celebration of the festival would be worthwhile only when Moslems continue to maintain true communal spirit, have fellow-feeling and be each other's keeper.

The absence of these would reduce Eid Adha to mere rituals that would not have any positive impact on the religious and social lives of Moslems, the Deputy Minister noted.

"It is only when you endeavour to build that true communal spirit where the strong supports the weak and all, irrespective of their social or financial standing, that the Eid Adha celebrations will be worthwhile" she added.

She said the government would continue to guarantee freedom of religion and other human rights to enable the people to use their God-given talents for the well being of humanity.

Madam Horner-Sam appealed to Moslems and Ghanaians to promote peace within their communities and workplaces as the country goes to the polls this year, adding, "Each and everyone of you have the responsibility to work to sustain the democratic culture that we have all nurtured this far".

She urged all eligible voters to register when the Voters Register is reopened.