Eid el-Fitr: 'Let's have mercy on people who are suffering'

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Muslims in Fort Portal have been urged to embrace mercy, compassion, and peace towards those suffering.

This was a call made by Abdul Hakim, the district khadi for Toro Muslim district, as he led Eid el-Fitr prayers at Kabarole Main Mosque on Friday, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadhan.

Hakim urged believers to reflect on the values of kindness and unity, especially at a time when many people across the world are facing hardship and conflict.

He emphasised that Eid should not only be a time of celebration, but also a moment to extend support to the less fortunate and promote harmony within communities.

“Let us show mercy to those who are suffering and work towards peace wherever we are."

The khadi also reflected on the ongoing global conflicts, particularly the Middle East tensions. 

“When you look at what is happening in Iran, many innocent people are being affected by this war. We thank God that such situations have not yet happened here.

“We have to have mercy on all those people who are suffering. Mercy is no longer in our hearts, yet people are dying like insects in different countries."

Hakim also challenged communities to reflect on their relationship with leaders and authorities, noting that citizens sometimes contribute to the actions taken by those in power.

“Our leaders implement certain things, including matters of security, but sometimes it is us who force them to do what they do. We must also have mercy on them."

The cleric further called for a broader sense of compassion that extends to not only human beings, but also animals and the environment.

“We have to have mercy on people, animals, and all other living things."

A number of leaders attended the prayers, including Richard Rwabuhinga, the Kabarole district chairperson, Joram Bintamanya, the Fort Portal Central division mayor-elect and Vincent Twesige, the Rwenzori West Police spokesperson.