President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his warmest greetings and well-wishes to the Muslim community in South Africa and around the world as they observe the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement released by his office, Ramaphosa acknowledged the significance of Ramadan as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charitable acts for Muslims.
“Ramadaan is a special period of spiritual devotion, physical sacrifice and charitable outreach for Muslims. But it is also an expression of faith that is embraced with tolerance and Ubuntu by all communities of faith, the statement read.
“In our 30th year of freedom, the advent of Ramadaan gives us an appreciation of the freedom of religion, belief and opinion enshrined in our Constitution and the richness of our nation’s diversity.
Ramaphosa commended the Muslim community for their steadfast commitment to the values of compassion, service, and care for the less fortunate, which are deeply embedded in the teachings of Ramadan as he extended his prayers to muslims facing war across the globe.
“Ramadaan also connects the local Muslim community more closely with their brethren around the world at this time, he said
“We remember that for millions of people, Ramadaan is being observed under conditions of conflict, war, displacement and oppression.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the peoples of Palestine, Yemen, Sudan, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Western Sahara, Mali and others – for whom this holy month is a time of great hardship and suffering. “
The President also praised the Muslim community for their vital contributions to South African society, noting their role in promoting social cohesion, mutual understanding, and the common pursuit of a more just and equitable nation.
“May the message of Ramadaan, of peace, tolerance and unity serve as an impetus for us as the international fellowship of nations to do all within our means to protect the most vulnerable, and put an end to conflicts and wars everywhere,” President Ramaphosa said.
As the holy month of Ramadan commenced, the President encouraged all South Africans, regardless of their faith or background, to embrace the values of compassion, tolerance, and respect for diversity, which are essential for the continued progress and unity of the nation.
