President David Granger yesterday said that unlike many other parts of the world, Guyana can be considered an oasis when it comes to religious tolerance; noting that the three main religions, Islam, Hinduism and Christianity, have been active contributors to the atmosphere of harmony that citizens enjoy.
A release from the Ministry of the Presidency said that he was at the time addressing members of the Muslim community at a post Eid-ul-Fitr luncheon hosted at the Baridi Benab at State House. The President told the Muslim community that State House belongs to the people of Guyana and that for as long as he resides there, they can expect more events like this.
“Islam encourages fellowship. It encourages friendship. It encourages charity and in Guyana we have seen how the practice of Islam has been able to erase fear, erase suspicion and prevent conflict from erupting… We have been singular in terms of breeding and encouraging religious tolerance and I believe that this event today is a symbol, not only to the Islamic community, but the entire national community that the way forward is to live and work and eat together”, he said.
The release said that those sentiments were echoed by Head of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana, Shaikh Moen ul-Hack, who said that the definition of patriotism is embedded in the teachings of Islam.
Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally said that events such as this help to foster improved relationships not only among Muslims, but the Guyanese society at large.
Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, was celebrated in Guyana on June 25.
