By Amos Harris
Monrovia, Liberia – As Liberian Muslims celebrated Eid al-Fitr on March 30, 2025, marking the end of Ramadan, the Grand Mufti of Liberia, Sheikh Abubakar Sumaworo, once again voiced a fervent appeal for the establishment of a national holiday for the Muslim community. This request, initially made in 1984, has been presented to successive administrations.
Speaking after Ramadan prayers on Gurley Street in Monrovia, Sheikh Sumaworo expressed his appreciation to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for his recent donation of 5,000 bags of rice and other essential materials to support Muslims during the holy month.
“We appreciate President Joseph N. Boakai for his generous contribution to the Muslim community during this holy month of Ramadan,” Sheikh Sumaworo stated. “We have been appealing for a national holiday for decades, and we strongly believe that President Boakai will consider this request in the spirit of inclusivity and national unity.”
The Grand Mufti also acknowledged the government’s efforts in ensuring the safety and security of Muslims throughout the fasting period, underscoring the vital role of peace and stability in the nation. He noted that previous appeals for a Muslim public holiday to the administrations of former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Weah had not been fulfilled.
“We now turn to President Boakai to put smiles on the faces of Muslims in Liberia,” he asserted. “We urge all Muslims to remain united, especially during this period of Ramadan, and to continue fostering peace and harmony.”
Sheikh Sumaworo cautioned Muslims against the spread of misinformation on social media, urging them to rely on their religious leaders for guidance in promoting unity and reflection during this significant time.
“This is a time for reflection and unity. We should listen to our religious leaders and work together for the common good,” he added. He also extended his gratitude to all Muslims who observed the fast and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their faith.
As part of the Ramadan conclusion, Sheikh Sumaworo officially declared March 30, 2025, as Eid al-Fitr, the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” The Supreme Fatwa Council of Liberia echoed this announcement, urging all Muslims across the nation to observe this important day with prayer and reflection.
Beyond religious observances, the Grand Mufti addressed the political climate in Liberia, calling on all political actors to respect judicial decisions and prioritize national interest over personal gains.
“We appeal to all parties to accept court rulings and move forward in the interest of peace,” he emphasized. “Liberia comes first, and we must all work together for a stronger and more unified nation.”
The renewed call for a Muslim public holiday marks a significant point in Liberia’s ongoing dialogue about national inclusivity and religious recognition. The response from President Boakai’s administration to this longstanding appeal is keenly awaited by the Muslim community and the nation at large.
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