President Mahama urges compassion, education, and unity during Eid-ul-Fitr celebration

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to extend kindness and support to the vulnerable as Muslims across the country mark Eid-ul-Fitr.

Speaking at a national celebration organised by the National Chief Imam at the Black Star Square in Accra, the President emphasised the importance of compassion, unity, and social responsibility.

“As we mark the end of Ramadan, let us not forget the vulnerable in our communities. This is a time for reflection, kindness, and support. We must look out for those who are struggling and extend a helping hand,” President Mahama stated.

He urged all Ghanaians, particularly Muslims, to use the occasion as an opportunity to demonstrate generosity by assisting those affected by poverty, illness, and hardship. Stressing the significance of community leadership, he called on religious and community heads to set an example in fostering a culture of care.

“The true essence of this celebration lies in our ability to uplift one another. Let us use this occasion to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and ensure that no one is left behind,” he added.

Education as a tool for empowerment

In his address, President Mahama also underscored the transformative power of education, particularly among Muslim youth. He encouraged them to embrace learning as a pathway to personal and national development.

“Education remains the most powerful tool for change, and I want to encourage our Muslim youth to embrace it fully. Education is our opportunity for social mobility. Islam itself teaches us that seeking knowledge is a lifelong duty for every Muslim,” he said.

Commending the contributions of Muslim communities to the country’s progress, he acknowledged their impact on education, healthcare, business, and governance.

“Our Muslim communities have made remarkable contributions to Ghana’s development, and I would like to take this opportunity to commend you for your efforts. From education and healthcare to business and governance, the impact of our Muslim brothers and sisters is evident everywhere,” he noted.

The President also called for equitable development in Zongo communities, highlighting the need for investments in education, healthcare, and job creation to ensure balanced progress.

“Our Zongo communities remain centres of entrepreneurship, trade, and cultural enrichment. However, we must do more to ensure that development in our Muslim communities is balanced and catches up with the rest of our country,” he urged.

Call for responsible celebrations

President Mahama issued a stern warning against reckless motorcycle riding and driving during the Eid-ul-Fitr festivities, emphasising the dangers such behaviour poses to lives.

“Ramadan is a period of togetherness, not recklessness,” he stated, urging young people to celebrate responsibly and avoid endangering themselves and others.

To curb the menace, he directed law enforcement agencies to be vigilant and take action against offenders.

“In past times, we have seen the needless loss of lives as a result of reckless riding of motorbikes and driving, which is mostly associated with the Ramadan celebration. I urge our brothers who engage in this to stop,” he cautioned.

Reaffirming his stance, he added, “I have asked the police to deal with you if you flout this, and you will be arrested.”

Call for national unity

Reiterating his vision for national unity, President Mahama stressed that Ghana’s progress hinges on collective efforts rather than divisions. He urged religious leaders, community elders, and the youth to embrace peace, tolerance, and mutual respect in the quest for a prosperous nation.

“I urge all Ghanaians, especially our religious leaders, community elders, and the youth, to keep fostering peace and understanding amongst us,” he said.

“Let us reject division, let us reject hatred, and let us reject intolerance. The Ghana we desire can only be built through collaboration and mutual respect,” he added.

The President reaffirmed the importance of an inclusive approach to national development, ensuring that all communities, including those in the northern regions and Zongo settlements, receive equal opportunities for growth.

“We must ensure that the development in our Muslim communities is balanced and catches up with the rest of the country,” he urged.