-by Tracy Romalho

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has urged Guyanese to embrace the values of sacrifice, patience, faith and peace as the nation observed Eid al-Adha. Addressing worshippers at the Leonora Masjid, the head of state said Eid al-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of obedience, selflessness and unwavering faith, values he noted are increasingly important in today’s challenging world. 

“The circumstances, the challenges, the greatest challenge and when the most is expected of us and the circumstances are dire, that is when we need to showcase the extent of our faith and the patience of our faith,” he said.

President Ali noted that this year’s observance holds added significance as it coincides with Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations. The president said the themes of sacrifice and independence are deeply connected, emphasising that the nation’s freedom was built through the struggles, sacrifices and determination of generations before us. 

He reflected on the contributions of our foreparents, stating that they endured hardship, resisted oppression and worked tirelessly to create a country where every citizen could live with dignity and hope.

President Ali further urged citizens to make daily sacrifices for the advancement of their families, communities and country, stressing that sacrifice should not be confined to religious observances alone but should guide everyday life and national development. 

“We are expected to make sacrifices also, sacrifices to ensure that we leave behind a better community, a better country, a better family, that we work hard to ensure we provide for our families, that we work hard to ensure we support the development of our country,” the president said.