Prime Minister’s Eid-ul-Fitr Message 2017

MESSAGE TO THE NATION FROM

DR THE HONOURABLE KEITH ROWLEY

PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

ON THE OCCASION OF 

EID-UL-FITR 2017

Assalaamu-Alaikum

May the blessings of Allah be showered upon our Muslim brothers and sister on this auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Today, following the austerity of the month of Ramadan, the Muslim community will gather to offer thanks to Allah for having the strength and will to observe the fast during the holy month. Having done this, on Eid-ul-Fitr, everyone who has fasted may face the year ahead with renewed strength, greater understanding and universal goodwill.

Islam teaches us to care. It obliges the strong and wealthy to help the weak and poor without regard for recognition or reward. Islam, like the other faiths we publicly recognize in Trinidad and Tobago also follows this tenet. Therefore, perhaps the greatest significance of this special day of rejoicing is the tradition of freely sharing a portion of what one has with those who are needy and vulnerable.  

At the celebration of Eid we witness an outpouring of generosity towards one another. We see the best of human nature and depth of good character of which we all are capable.The fast of Ramadan shows how it feels to be hungry; Eid-ul-Fitr shows the real meaning of selflessness, goodwill and community.

Today in our local communities and worldwide, Muslims will stand together shoulder to shoulder in prayer and brotherhood.

Let all of us take this opportunity to re-dedicate our lives to the cause of humanity, which is the best way to demonstrate love of God. Let us resolve that our energies, as we move forward as citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, will be directed towards strengthening our society based on mutual respect, brotherly love, and understanding.

Let us decide today and everyday to continue to build our families, communities and our nation. As such, we will not only reap material benefits but we will also be grounded by spiritual and ethical values rooted in Islam that contributes to national development.

 To our Muslim community I wish you all a joyous Eid Mubarak. May the blessings of Allah light your way and lead you to success, peace and love.