Rural Development Minister Inia Seruiratu thanked the Muslim community for their contribution towards nation building.
In officiating the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday celebration at the Vunimoli Mosque, outside Labasa Town, Mr Seruiratu said such contribution reflected the values and principles of Prophet Mohammed.
“Prophet Mohammed’s birthday is all part of the wonderful tradition we have developed of acknowledging each other’s religious festivals,” he said.
“Here in Fiji, we do so very proudly — underlining the unique nature of Fiji as a multi-faith nation with a Constitution that guarantees religious freedom and establishes a secular state, in which all religions are equal.
“Let us also celebrate the wonderful values he stood for and the values we share. Let us make the birth anniversary of our gracious Prophet (PBUH), a beacon that guides our way to rehabilitate and realise the true meaning of mercy and paving the way to our peaceful co-existence and unity among all Fijians, and the world over.”
Mr Seruiratu said the celebration should remind people of the beliefs the Prophet lived sharing as one people, one nation, and have a common destiny.
“Our strength as a nation lies in our equality in diversity and today’s celebration is one of the many testaments to this.”
