Holy month of Ramadhan begins as Clergy calls for generosity

Muslims across the country are today, Thursday morning, starting the Islamic Holy month Of Ramadhan, a period of fasting and spiritual reflection.

Physically fit Muslims must fast as a religious obligation from dawn to dusk during the Ramadhan, which lasts for one lunar cycle, about 28-29 days, as a religious obligation.

Muslim clerics on Wednesday said this year’s fasting period will be “a period of intense reflection and devotion to God and prayers for peace” in the light of increased terror attacks in the country.

The clerics said they expected Muslims to pray for peace and seek guidance to combat social ills bedevilling the society.

Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya Organising Secretary Sheikh Mohamed Khalifa has said Muslims should exercise self-discipline, self-restraint and show love and generosity to all including people from other faiths.

He called on the police to provide adequate security to Muslims who will be attending long night prayers during the holy month.

Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar said he expects the Muslims to exercise restraint and urged the government to lift curfews in areas dominated by the Muslims to allow the faithful conduct their religious activities.

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka also called on the Government to lift the curfew in affected area to “facilitate peaceful reflection and conduct as the Muslims undertake this important spiritual exercise.”

“We reiterate it is the responsibility of the Government of the day to guarantee security for all Kenyans at all times including the month of Ramadhan,” said Kalonzo.

Muslims observe the Ramadhan immediately after the sighting of the new moon following the culmination of the month of Shaban in the lunar-based Hijrah calendar.

During the Ramadhan, Muslims are to focus on reparation for wrongdoings and good deeds. It is also the most ideal time for them to rebuild community, organizational, and family ties severed by misunderstandings.

From Royal Media Services we wish our Muslim brothers and sisters Ramadhan Kareem.