Muslims urged to uphold peace, love
Muslims have been challenged to uphold peace and love in their practice of faith to ensure coexistence with all humankind and religions.
The call was made yesterday during celebrations of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday which was spiced by a Ziyarah Parade that brought together hundreds of Muslims, mostly in Blantyre and Lilongwe cities.
During the Lilongwe ceremony, Lilongwe Sunni Foundation’s Imam Mohammad Mohsin said the birthday of Muhammad, regarded as the founder of Islamic faith, is important for Muslims because it provides an opportunity for reflection and to show love to all mankind.
He said: “We have gathered to celebrate the birthday of our Prophet Muhammad who urged blessings and mercy for all mankind, not just Muslims, so Prophet Muhammad birthday is very important for us.
“I want to convey this message that Muslims should embrace peace, love and harmony in their daily lives. On behalf of the Lilongwe Sunni Foundation I urge all Muslims to spread the message of peace in this country and all over the world.”
Qadria Muslim Association of Malawi executive director Saiti Jambo said the key message on the day was about peace and love for all mankind.
In Blantyre, Paramount Chief Kawinga, who was the guest of honour,also called for coexistence irrespective of religious and cultural affiliations to avoid conflicts in society.
Speaking during celebrations at Mpingwe Sports Club, he emphasised the need for people from all religions to respect each other’s religions in line with the teachings of the Holy Qur’an which emphasises on peace and harmony.
Said Kawinga: “Islam is a peaceful religion and we emphasise on peace and that is why now and again we always preach about peace.”
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad falls on the Third Islamic Month is celebrated all over the world. During the celebrations, Muslims decorate their houses, offices and streets and give all types of gifts (Sadaqa and Khayraat), increase good deeds and have procession to show love and respect for their prophet.
In Blantyre, the Muslims paraded from Kanjedza Mosque through Yiannakis Roundabout to Illovo Roundabout and headed straight to Mpingwe Sports Club where prayers and several activities took place.
In Lilongwe, they marched from Area 3 Mosque (Madrassah Noor Ul Islam) to Muslim Sports Club in Area 2.
The calls for coexistence come barely a week after Muslims and Christians clashed at Mangochi turn-off in Liwonde after two Muslim girls were prevented from attending class while wearing a Islamic head gear, hijab, at M’manga Primary School.
