MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has urged Liberians to come together and reconcile to pave the way for a peaceful and prosperous nation.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh – [email protected]
Speaking during Iftar on Friday, the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims in Ramadan, President Boakai emphasized the importance of reconciliation for Liberia’s progress.
“As I always say we all should think about Liberia, love Liberia, and build Liberia. This is our country, and no one should feel like a second-class citizen because of their religion,” President Boakai said.
The event marked a significant gathering organized by the Islamic community, attended by President Boakai following his narrow victory over former President George Weah.
Acknowledging the post-election divisions, President Boakai called on the Islamic community and all Liberians to use Ramadan as an opportunity to foster lasting peace.
“The first and foremost thing is for us to reconcile as Liberians. We have to promote tolerance and have in mind that we are one. Through each of you, you have done things to provide livelihood and improved the lives of our people. Let this gathering tonight touch our hearts, minds and bring peace and hope to lead us to build bridges that will bring us together closely,” he said.
“ All of us can’t be president, Vice president and chief justice, but all of us together are Liberians and can make this country, makes humanity. I want to encourage everybody that we should maintain the spirit of unity, cooperation and care for our country. A lot has happened in Liberia, and going forward what affects one person, affects everyone, that is the spirit I want us to demonstrate during this Ramadan.”
President Boakai commended the Islamic Community for their contributions to nation-building and emphasized the importance of unity in strength. He pledged to collaborate with the Minister of State Without Portfolio, Mamaka Bility, to ensure a successful Islamic pilgrimage, the Hajj, this year.
“I am here humble to stand before you as your President of this nation to say the first and foremost thing is to reconcile. Let all of us feel as Liberians, and let unity make all of us do everything in the interest of this country,” he said.
Speaking further he said: “We gather tonight under the gentle glow of unity with understanding. With a reminder that in unity, we find our strength. And we should be very proud of ourselves and the role we have played to do this. As I look in the crowd, I see nobody else but brothers and sisters and Liberians working in the interest of our country. We want to say the richness of our co-existence as Liberians working together for one goal in the interest of our nation. Every citizen and every religion are important in Liberia.”
Also speaking, the Minister of State Without Portfolio, Mamaka Bility, emphasized the lessons of Ramadan – compassion and gratitude – and called for embracing diversity and celebrating shared humanity.
“In the spirit of Ramadan, we gather here as a demonstration of the relentless commitment of our President and our nation to religious tolerance and inclusivity. It is a beautiful reflection of our collective belief regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs. We are one people, united in our aspirations for a better, prosperous future for Liberia,” she said.
“As we breakfast today with our dynamic President, let us remember the profound lessons of Ramadan – pounce, compassion, and gratitude. Let us open our hearts to the blessings of this holy month and extend a hand of kindness to those in need.”
The Chairman of the National Muslim Council of Liberia, Alhaji Ibrahim Fumba Sheriff, expressed gratitude to President Boakai and pledged the Council’s commitment to promoting peace and unity.
Chief Imam Ali Krayee emphasized the significance of unity, while the Chairman of the Elder Supreme Council, Alhadji Garfee Swaray, urged the President’s intervention for a successful Hajj in 2024.