Muslim leaders in Ghana have banded together to demand that the government designates two days as official holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha in an effort to resolve recurrent disagreements over the start of these festive celebrations.
The move aims to eliminate the persistent uncertainty surrounding the determination of the Ramadan holiday, whether it should be observed on the 29th or 30th day.
The Conference of Regional Imams of Ghana, during a recent gathering in Kumasi, emphasized the need for clarity in the celebration of these important Islamic holidays. This uncertainty has led to dissatisfaction among some Muslims who have questioned the declaration of the holiday by the national chief Imam.
Suallah Abdallah Quandah, the Executive Secretary of the Conference of Regional Imams, highlighted the importance of having two official days designated as holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha to put an end to this issue once and for all.
The Conference of Regional Imams expressed their desire for the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to resume the recruitment of Arabic teachers in various Muslim schools. This move aims to strengthen the teaching of Arabic and Islamic studies in these institutions.
During the conference, Flt Lt. Moucharoudine-Siddique Maiga, the Ghana Air Force Imam, provided valuable advice to Muslim leaders. He urged them to refrain from seeking favors from politicians and instead encouraged them to hold politicians accountable for promoting necessary development in their respective regions. This call for accountability and responsible leadership was met with enthusiasm and support from the gathered Muslim leaders.
The proposal to designate two days as official holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha will now be considered by the Ghanaian government. It is hoped that this initiative will bring clarity and unity to the Muslim community in Ghana during these important religious celebrations.
