Both the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader have sent greetings to the Muslim community as the holy month of Ramadan began after sunset on Saturday evening. May 2 has been declared a public holiday for Eid.
They are hoping that with fewer pandemic-related restrictions people can celebrate more freely.
In his statement, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley said, “The pandemic over the past two years seriously curtailed visits to the Houses of Worship and the homes of friends and families during the month of Ramadhan. Now with restrictions being reduced, worshippers can return to some state of normalcy albeit with extra precautions to ensure their health and safety."
He said the Muslim community was blessed to celebrate another Ramadhan.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley
“All praise and gratitude are for Almighty God, who through His Infinite Grace and Mercy has blessed us with the opportunity to witness another Holy month of Ramadhan. Muslims have been supplicating during the past two months of Rajab and Sha’ban to be given the opportunity to witness the month of Ramadhan so that they could benefit from its merits and blessings.”
Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, meanwhile, urged the community to remain strong after the hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, the Opposition Leader said, “Ramadan is a time in which Muslims engage in reflection, fasting, prayer and charitable giving. Let us seek to mirror the example of our Muslim brothers and sisters, and help our neighbours and members of our communities who may be feeling the impacts of economic hardship and loss.”
She called on the country to reflect on the Islamic values of faith, compassion, and selflessness as these values are important as the nation works together to build a stronger, brighter future.
“As we begin to come together again, two years after the start of the pandemic, I know that many are looking forward to commemorating this holy month of Ramadan in their communities and mosques. I urge you to do so safely and be mindful of the health protocols we continue to follow. I pray for the good health and prosperity of all citizens at this time.”