As the Muslim community in Monrovia and across Liberia embarks on the sacred observance of Ramadan, Monrovia City Mayor John-Charuk Siafa, has extended an open encouragement for peace, unity, and religious tolerance.
He urged all residents to use this holy month as an opportunity to reflect on the values of compassion, kindness, and service to others.
In a released issued over the weekend on behalf of the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the City Council, Mayor Siafa underscored the spiritual significance of Ramadan as a time of deep faith, self-discipline, and unwavering generosity.
He noted that the holy month reminds all people, regardless of religious background, of the importance of empathy and communal harmony.
“This is a time when Muslims strengthen their faith, practice patience, and engage in acts of prayer and charity. It is also a moment to share with those less fortunate and extend a helping hand wherever possible,” Mayor Siafa stated.
“The values of Ramadan seen in kindness, forgiveness, and selflessness are principles that can inspire all of us to work towards a more compassionate and united society.”
Mayor Siafa took the opportunity to recognize the immense contributions of the Muslim community to Monrovia’s social and economic fabric.
He commended their dedication to fostering peace, development, and interfaith harmony in the city, emphasizing that their efforts are invaluable to the progress of Liberia’s democracy.
“As Mayor of the City of Monrovia, I am proudly honored to identify with the Islamic faith on this special occasion and to acknowledge the significant contributions the Muslim community continues to make in our city every day in sustaining peace and protecting our thriving democracy,” he said.
He further encouraged all residents to use this sacred period to foster mutual respect, strengthen bonds across religious and cultural divides, and demonstrate acts of goodwill towards one another.
The Mayor also emphasized the importance of upholding religious freedom and tolerance, citing Article 14 of the Liberian Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to practice their faith without discrimination or hindrance.
“I encourage everyone, regardless of their faith, to respect the traditions of Ramadan by upholding the tenets of religious tolerance and being mindful of those observing the fast. It is essential that we all recognize and respect the inalienable rights of others, as guaranteed under our constitution,” Mayor Siafa stated.
He reminded the public that Liberia, as a nation of diverse religious beliefs, thrives on the principles of peaceful coexistence. “No religious denomination or sect shall have any exclusive privilege over another, but all shall be treated equally. It is through this spirit of unity that our society will continue to prosper,” he added.
Mayor Siafa urged the people of Monrovia to embrace the charitable spirit of Ramadan by extending kindness to the less fortunate, supporting community-driven initiatives, and strengthening the bonds of friendship between different religious groups.
“Let us take this opportunity to uplift one another, offer help to those in need, and build a stronger, more inclusive Monrovia. Whether through acts of charity, volunteering, or simply showing kindness to a neighbor, we can all contribute to making this Ramadan a time of positive change,” he said.
Mayor Siafa expressed hope that the holy month would bring blessings of peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment to all Muslims in Monrovia and beyond.
He called on residents to embrace the principles of Ramadan as in faith, patience, and generosity not just during the fasting period but as guiding values throughout the year.