Editorial

The Holy Month of Ramadan is not only meant for fasting and abstinence, it is also a month when good and God-fearing Muslims remember the poor and needy. It is a time when Muslims extend a helping hand to those in need, a time for sharing and caring. In the light of this, President Yahya Jammeh's annual Ramadan gift of sugar to Muslims throughout the country is a tradition worthy of commendation. The annual gift is a perfect illustration of the president's compassion and love for humanity in general and Gambians in particular. It is also a perfect embodiment of the fundamental principles enshrined in Islamic teachings and African ideals of good neighbourliness.

Our religions, particularly Islam, require us to share part of the wealth entrusted to us by the Almighty Allah with the economically underprivileged, especially during this period of generosity, compassion, forgiveness, love and prayers. The same is true of our African ideals, which form part of the bedrock of our common identity as citizens of this earth. A point well worth mentioning is the fact that President Jammeh's  move is politically colourless, as the distribution is not based on party politics or any other form of sectionalism.

He has therefore, manifested an example that we must all emulate. His assistance will greatly help the poor and needy, as it goes a long way towards reducing the burden of household expenses. Additionally, the annual traditional assistance of President Jammeh in providing cups of sugar to Muslims who performed their Friday prayers at the State House Mosque is another manifestation of his love and concern for humanity and the needy people of this country, especially the less privileged. This is further buttressed by the fact that whatever is generated from his Kanilai farms is utilised for the benefit of Gambians.

Therefore, Gambians, especially the Muslim Ummah, need to support President Yahya Jammeh and his government, as it was only with the advent of his administration that this worthy tradition was instituted. Of all the leaders of the world, it is only President Jammeh who renders such assistance to the Muslim fraternity during the month of Ramadan. His love and care for his people is manifested in all spheres and aspects of life. President Jammeh has played his part. Regional governors, district chiefs and others concerned with the distribution of the gift should ensure that the Ramadan gift reaches every Muslim in accordance with President Jammeh's call for accountability, transparency and probity.