Museveni wishes joyous and blessed Eid to Muslims

KAMPALA - President Yoweri Museveni has wished Muslims a joyous and blessed Eid al Fitr in a message he sent to them from State House Entebbe.

Museveni assured the Muslim fraternity, that the intercessory prayers that they offered for the nation during the Sacred and Holy month of Ramadhan, will make it stand through the difficult times of the coronavirus pandemic.

"Throughout the world, people are marking this day with fervent prayers for world peace. It is on festive days like these that people deeply think about the universality of humanity. Your commendable discipline, fasting, and generous giving during this period have brought a rich harvest of blessings to your families and your prayers will stand this nation in good stead. I pray that this remains an integral part of your lives and not a seasonal one. I'm confident that you have emerged from this period of abstinence spiritually rejuvenated and fortified," he said.

In the message sent out on Friday, the President said while it will not be possible to congregate in Mosques to celebrate Eid el Fitr because of the Coronavirus pandemic and that State House would not be able to offer them the usual dinner at Entebbe, Allah would still bless them in their homes.

"Due to the coronavirus that has affected the world, you will not be able to congregate in the mosques for the El fitr Idi prayers as is the tradition nor will I be able to give the dinner which I normally give. However, Allah's boundless blessings will find you in your homes. The bible says that God is everywhere meaning he is in all places, even in your homes, he is there," he said.

President Museveni encouraged the Muslim faithful to make fasting and generosity that have exhibited during the Holy Month, an integral part of their lives and not just a seasonal habit.

As Muslims bid farewell to the fasting month of Ramadhan and prepare for Eid al-fitr, many around the world will not celebrate outdoor Eid prayers and festivals due to the coronavirus pandemic that has wreaked havoc around the world.

Muslims have been urged to pray from home and not allow any group prayers.