During a recent statement, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics, Professor Biman Prasad emphasized the importance of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, highlighting his messages of peace, inclusivity, tolerance, and ethical conduct. This remark was made as Fiji’s Muslim community celebrated the Birthday of the founder of Islam.
Professor Prasad noted that the values of social, ethical, moral, and religious conduct are fundamental to the advancement of society, economy, and politics. He acknowledged the vital contributions of all religious groups to the nation, particularly the Muslim community, in enhancing education and fostering spiritual and communal life.
He articulated that these principles are essential for establishing lasting peace, harmony, and tolerance, while also promoting inclusivity, equality, dignity, and justice within the society.
Referencing historical context, he mentioned that in 1974, a significant agreement was reached between the then National Federation Party and Opposition Leader Siddiq Moidin Koya and Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to designate both Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday and Diwali as public holidays, recognizing the contributions of the Indo-Fijian community. This act was an example of bipartisanship serving the national interest.
In closing, Professor Prasad extended warm wishes to the Muslim community for a blessed celebration of their Prophet’s Birthday, acknowledging Fiji’s rich multicultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious landscape.