Muslims in the country yesterday celebrated the end of Ramadan with a call for unity among people of different religious and political inclinations.
Grand Mufti of Malawi Sheikh Muhammad Uthman Mtalika and President Lazarus Chakwera made the call for peace yesterday.
Speaking in an interview on the sidelines of prayers at Kamuzu Stadium upper ground in Blantyre, Mtalika said: “Unity and co-existence are the key pillars for the country to progress, not discrimination,” he said.
However, Mtalika expressed concern that some Muslims who are not Malawians, but are working in the country lead Eid-ul-Fitr prayers before Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM) makes a declaration on moon-sighting.
He said: “The people who do this have influence and such conduct is bringing divisions among Muslims. My appeal to such people is that they should respect the leadership of MAM and adhere to Islamic principles.”
On relations between people of different religious beliefs, Mtalika said it is his prayer that the coexistence should be sustained.
The prayers under the theme ‘Unity and love for a better Malawi’ were held nationwide yesterday after MAM announced that the moon was sighted on Sunday to mark the end of 30 days of fasting.
President Chakwera joined Muslims in Salima for the prayers where he highlighted the importance of peace and unity in the fulfilment of the development agenda.
He said everyone who had taken part in the prayers showed a heart of solidarity by respecting Muslims who are celebrating Eid.
Said Chakwera: “These prayers will bring to light people who want to bring divisions in the country by trying so hard to gain political mileage at every given opportunity, especially during challenges that we are facing as a nation.”
The President further said it was disheartening to witness some individuals who try to bring division at any given opportunity.
“During times of crisis, relief items meant for the most vulnerable were hoarded by a select few who desired to gain a bigger share for personal benefits. The spirit of sharing and compassion, which had defined the nation for years, was at risk of being lost,” said Chakwera.
Vice-President Michael Usi attended the prayers at Kasolo Primary School in Traditional Authority (T/A) Chimwala in Mangochi District.
UTM Party president Dalitso Kabambe also joined the prayers in Mangochi while former president and Democratic Progressive Party leader Peter Mutharika attended the prayers in Balaka.
Muslims in the country started observing Ramadan on March 1 2025.
