Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says the adversity we have endured and continue to endure has honed our appreciation for the blessings, big and small, that have been bestowed upon us.
In his message for the beginning of a month of fasting for Muslims, Bainimarama says the past 12 months have given us much to contemplate.
He says through sacrifice, they have shielded the people from the ravages of the global pandemic, yet the cruel necessity of closing the borders has placed an enormous burden of hardship on the backs of our people.
The Prime Minister says it has also ignited generosity in the hearts of those with the means to aid those in-need and it has also inspired a pioneering spirit in Fijians who have embraced new opportunities.
Bainimarama says it has revealed the true strength of Fijians love for their country and for each other as we come from many faiths, yet we are united by a deep desire to keep Fiji safe and see our beloved nation succeed.
He says with the sighting of the new moon, he wishes Muslim sisters and brothers a blessed Ramadan as they begin a month-long journey of self-discipline and spirituality, sustained by faith and their love for family, friends, and all of humanity.
Bainimarama says one of the few nations on Earth where people can safely gather, Fijians of all faiths can be together to openly share in the festivities of the Holy month and the opportunity that Ramadan provides for reflection.
He adds that for all those marking the start of Ramadan in Fiji and around the world, he prays that they find the great rewards that only charity and righteous deeds can offer and he prays that their virtue inspires the world to give full embrace to a spirit of compassion that can sustain humanity through this terrible pandemic towards a future where all can be together, in health and happiness, once again.
Eid is expected to be celebrated on the 14th of May.
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
