The Holy month of Ramadan has officially begun, and I extend my very best wishes to the Muslim community of Trinidad and Tobago, and beyond, for a safe, peaceful, and truly fulfilling observance.
Muslims practice immense self-discipline and personal sacrifice during this very sacred month, to fulfilone of the five pillars of Islam. They engage in reflection, fasting, prayer, and charity to attain closeness to Allah.
Such devotion by the Muslim Ummah of Trinidad and Tobago has always historically enriched our nation. It continues to inspire the rest of the population to always be cognizant of the fact that, no matter how far we progress in this world, we must always be willing to review our lives and commit to doing better as individuals and a society.
In 2025, Ramadan occurs under a State of Emergency, called to address the deadly, brutal, unprecedented crime and violence wave that has gripped our nation in the past years, and forced our citizens to live in fear and terror.
Notably, Ramadan is predominantly observed by Muslims gathering with their families and other members of their community en masse at nights in the numerous mosques throughout Trinidad and Tobago to engage in several hours of prayer and Iftar.
I therefore call to the police authorities to implement increased police patrols in the vicinity of the mosques across the nation for the duration of Ramadan, to ensure that devotees are safe at all times.
To my Muslim brothers and sisters, as you embark on your powerful spiritual journey, may Allah’s protection always be with you during this sacred month and beyond.
May practicing sawm and salat bring light to your soul this Ramadan. May your love, service, and sacrifice during the holy month keep Jannah’s doors open for you forever.
May Almighty Allah (Subhana Wa Ta’ala) reward you for your good deeds, hard work and generosity and may He keep you all in the best of health and the highest state of Imaan.
And may the light that we celebrate at Ramadan show us the way and lead us together on the path of peace and social harmony, so that we may restore our nation’s peace, safety, prosperity and progress.
Assalam-u-Alaikum and Ramadan Kareem.
END
KAMLA PERSAD-BISSESSAR, SC, MP, 28 February 2025
