President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians, particularly Muslim faithful, to dedicate prayers for peace in the Middle East as they mark Eid al-Fitr at Independence Square.
Addressing worshippers at the national Eid grounds, the President urged that the spirit of the occasion should not only be confined to celebration but also extended to reflection on global challenges.
He noted that while Eid represents joy and gratitude following Ramadan, it also presents an opportunity to remember those facing hardship and conflict across the world.
“As we celebrate today, we cannot ignore the pain and suffering that is going on in other parts of the world,” he stated, drawing attention to ongoing violence and instability in the Middle East.
President Mahama described the situation in the region as deeply troubling, highlighting the human cost of continued hostilities. He pointed to the loss of innocent lives, including women and children, as well as widespread displacement and destruction of communities.
According to him, the scale of suffering demands a collective response rooted in compassion and solidarity. He called on Muslims and all Ghanaians to keep affected populations in their prayers, particularly families who have lost loved ones or been forced from their homes.
“Innocent lives, including women and children, are being lost. Families have been displaced and communities have been shattered,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Call for Prayers and Global Responsibility
The President appealed for prayers not only for those directly affected but also for leaders involved in the conflict. He stressed the need for wisdom and restraint, urging decision makers to prioritize dialogue over continued violence.
“On this solemn occasion of Eid al-Fitr, I invite all of us to offer prayers for peace in the Middle East. Let us pray that Allah will grant comfort to the bereaved families, healing to those who have been injured, and relief to those in distress.”
He further called for divine guidance for global leaders, expressing hope that they would choose peaceful solutions that preserve lives and restore stability. Drawing from Islamic teachings, President Mahama referenced the moral imperative to protect human life.
He noted that the Qur’an underscores the value of saving lives, describing it as equivalent to saving all of humanity. “The Holy Quran teaches us that saving one life is as if saving all of humanity. We must never lose sight of our shared humanity,” he stated.
This principle, he explained, should guide both individuals and nations in their actions, particularly in times of conflict. He warned against losing sight of shared humanity, stressing that compassion must remain central to global responses.
Appeal to World Leaders
In a direct appeal, the President mentioned key global figures, urging them to pursue peace and bring an end to the conflict. He called for a shift from confrontation to dialogue, emphasizing the need for leadership that prioritizes human life over geopolitical interests.
“May Allah touch the hearts of the leaders, Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Ali Khamenei, so that this war will come to an end,” he said. The remarks reflect Ghana’s broader diplomatic posture, which has consistently emphasized peaceful resolution of conflicts through international cooperation and respect for human rights.
President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s position as a country committed to peace, justice, and adherence to international law. He stated that Ghana will continue to advocate for non violent solutions to global conflicts and support efforts aimed at restoring stability.
He noted that the country’s foreign policy remains guided by principles that promote dialogue and mutual respect among nations. This approach, he said, aligns with Ghana’s long standing reputation as a voice for peace on the international stage.
“Ghana remains committed to the principles of peace, justice and respect for international law and will continue to lend its voice to the cause for a peaceful resolution of this conflict and any other conflicts.”
Eid as a Moment of Reflection
While the occasion marked the end of Ramadan, the President emphasized that Eid should also serve as a moment for deeper reflection on global and national responsibilities. He encouraged citizens to extend the values of compassion, generosity, and unity cultivated during the holy month into their everyday lives.
He urged Muslims to use the occasion not only to celebrate but also to strengthen their commitment to peace and social harmony, both within Ghana and beyond.
The gathering at Independence Square brought together thousands of worshippers in a show of unity and shared faith, even as attention turned to pressing global issues.