On the eve of the 2022 Muslim feast of Eid-ul-Fitr , locally called Koriteh in The Gambia, an event that marks the end of Ramadan, His Excellency President Adama Barrow delivered the traditional presidential nation address, in which he touched on varying burning issues in the country, as well as gave some words of wisdom, praise, prayers and motivation for the citizenry.
“In as much as there is cause for happiness and celebration, it is worth remembering that there are many people, both at home and abroad, who are either in hospital, hungry or in devastating situations. They are not blessed enough to celebrate this important Muslim feast,” he lamented; thus admonished for the rest to feel for them and pray for their recovery.
On the just ended month of Ramadan, he stated: “It is a month that reinforces faith and encourages charitable acts, such as helping the less privileged, showing empathy for those in pain, and acting generously towards family, friends, and neighbours”.
Further in his remarks, the President made reference to the coincidence of this year’s Eid with the outbreak of conflicts in certain parts of the world; such as the Russia-Ukraine war, which he noted is having negative impact on the global economy. Thus he advised that we “cherish and preserve the peace and stability we now enjoy, and pray for peace and a better world order”.
“Despite the unfortunate situation we may find ourselves in, we must continue to be steadfast in faith, and engage in acts of kindness and forgiveness”.
He also noted that it is a blessing that within the same period, the country witnessed other key religious and national events, such as Lent and Easter for the Christian community and the National Assembly elections.
He expressed gratitude that these events have come to pass peacefully. He however cautioned against complacency, asked for the peace to be sustained and the cordial relations with our neighbours maintained.
President Barrow went on to reference the recent conflict in the Casamance region of Senegal and the resulting displacement of many families and communities. He assured that he is constantly in touch with President Macky Sall, to ensure that peace prevails in the region.
The other burning issue the President delved into is the price hikes, and the resulting challenges posed to families. He affirmed that his government has taken steps to “cut down on expenditure, and subsidise the price of fuel to ease the hardship arising from the ever-increasing price of fuel on the world market”.
On the rising incidents of road accidents, President Barrow described it as unfortunate and therefore urged drivers to drive safely and abide by the traffic rules, and for the traffic police to be more vigilant.
He concluded by admonishing for the public to hold onto our values and good ethics to guide the younger generation.