As Muslims around celebrate Eid al-Fitr marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the occasion to remind the nation of the contributions of the Muslim community during South Africa's struggle against apartheid and the country's liberation.
Addressing the Eid prayer held by the Muslim community in Pretoria on Wednesday, the Deputy President said the Muslim community continued to contribute to the development of South African societies.
"Islam is part of our African heritage, our history and our future .... We recall the involvement of the Muslim community in the struggle against apartheid. We remember the contribution of the Muslim community of Pretoria to our struggle," said Ramaphosa.
"This is the community that gave South Africa its first black Chief Justice, Justice Ismail Mohamed. This is a community that continues to play a vital role in the renewal, reconstruction and transformation of our nation," he said.
Ramaphosa said the Muslim community reminded the government of the work it must continue to do to improve the lives of citizens and the people of Africa.
"As we mark the end of the holy fast, let us affirm our commitment to work together to end poverty, inequality, injustice and tyranny. Let us work together to end racism, sexism and religious intolerance," he added.
"Let us stand up for the oppressed and the dispossessed, for those whose lands have been occupied and whose livelihoods have been destroyed.
"Let us stand together to oppose the wars, civil conflicts and acts of terror that continue to claim the lives of so many innocents. Let us build a peaceful, just and prosperous world."
Source: Nam News Network