President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Friday urged Guyanese to embrace peace, unity and compassion while reflecting on the nation’s growing prosperity and global uncertainties as he extended Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to the Islamic community.
In a message marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the Head of State described Eid-ul-Fitr as “a triumph written in faith, sacrifice, and devotion,” highlighting the spiritual significance of the observance following weeks of fasting, prayer and charity.
He said the occasion represents renewal and gratitude, noting that the festival is “the flowering of restraint” and a reward for patience and humility demonstrated during Ramadan.
Quoting from the Holy Quran, President Ali emphasized the importance of gratitude and reflection, stating that Eid is a time when “hearts are light,” families reunite and acts of forgiveness and generosity take center stage. He underscored that the values practiced during Ramadan — discipline, compassion and charity — must extend beyond the season.
The President also pointed to Guyana’s current trajectory, describing it as a period of “immense promise” and “boundless possibility,” with unprecedented opportunities for national development. However, he cautioned that prosperity must be carefully managed and shared.
“Prosperity, like faith, is not self-sustaining. It must be nurtured, guided, and shared,” he said, adding that a nation’s true measure lies not in its wealth but in its values and actions.
While acknowledging the celebratory nature of Eid, President Ali also drew attention to ongoing conflicts in other parts of the world, where violence continues to disrupt lives and communities.
“There are lands today where the call to prayer is drowned by the sound of gunfire, where celebration is replaced by sorrow,” he said.
He used the moment to call for global and national peace, stressing that development and prosperity cannot endure without stability.
“For without peace, prosperity is but a fragile illusion,” the President stated.
He urged citizens to actively promote harmony in their daily lives, from their homes to their communities, emphasizing that peace is a strength rather than a weakness.
The message concluded with a call for unity and a reaffirmation of shared values, as President Ali extended Eid Mubarak greetings to all Guyanese, wishing for blessings, guidance and continued togetherness.