Message from the Leader of the Opposition on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr 2022

As we mark the special and sacred day of Eid-ul-Fitr, we do so inspired by the message this auspicious day offers us each year, Allah’s love for all of humanity will always prevail.

As Muslims in Trinidad and Tobago and around the world prepare to celebrate the holy occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I wish everyone celebrating a happy and blessed Eid.

The sighting of the crescent moon offers a glimmer of hope, after a period of sacrifice, fasting, and prayer. As we all have, Muslims have endured two years of restrictions as we dealt with the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr is even more joyous, as once again members of the Islamic faith are able to gather and mark their religious festivities with their families and communities safely and responsibly.

The Holy Quran tells us, “So verily, with the hardship, there is relief. Verily, with the hardship, there is relief” [Quran 94:5-6]

In the past two years there has been no shortage of hardship facing our citizens, from economic to social as a result of the prevailing pandemic, but our Muslim brothers and sisters, through their dedication towards Allah as well as faith in his teachings have always inspired us to know that with Allah’s grace, relief will always come.

In addition to fasting and reflection, during the Holy month of Ramadan, and throughout the year, members of the faith engage in zakat (charity), which is one of the five pillars of Islam. They provided hope to many currently facing difficulties and have demonstrated the importance of unity and commitment to service to Allah and to their fellow man.

If there is one message we as a nation should take from our Islamic Community as they celebrate this special and blessed day, it is that the greatest reward to humanity, the greatest solution to our problems as well as the greatest guarantee of a better tomorrow is unwavering belief in Allah.

As we prepare to face challenges ahead as a nation, we can draw inspiration from the Muslim community for their discipline, resolve, and strength of faith.

Even though our country is facing a dark time, a time of uncertainty and adversity, we have hope that together we can overcome these challenges and emerge stronger and more united.

On this joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I wish all good health, prosperity and peace.

Eid Mubarak!

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP
Leader of the Opposition

2nd May, 2022