By Fostina Mkandawire

Salima, March 31, Mana: President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera on Monday called upon different religious groupings to live in peace and unity to foster the country's development.

Chakwera made the call at Mchoka Community Ground, in Salima district, in the area of Senior Chief Ndindi during Eid UL Fitr prayers marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, under the theme: ‘Unity and love for a better Malawi’.

The President said everyone who had taken part in the prayers had shown a heart of co-existence and solidarity by respecting Muslims who are celebrating Eid.

"These prayers will bring to light people who want to bring divisions in the country by trying so hard to gain political mileage at every given opportunity especially during challenges that we are facing as a nation," he said.

He said it was disheartening to witness other unscrupulous individuals who try to bring division at any given opportunity to enrich themselves rather than help those in need.

"During times of crisis, relief items meant for the most vulnerable were hoarded by a select few who desired to gain a bigger share for personal benefits. The spirit of sharing and compassion, which had defined the nation for years, was at risk of being lost," he said.

He expressed dismay by some businesspeople who take advantage of economic hardships to overprice commodities.

"Some people want to create resentment and frustration among the people. Their actions were not just about profit; they were attempts to create instability and dissatisfaction among the masses," he said.

Chakwera therefore said religious differences should not bring segregation and disunity in the country.

Qadria Mushm Association of Malawi's Chairperson for Salima Chapter, Mufti Shamuuna Sosola commended the President for bringing unity and oneness among religious groupings.

"Having the President during our prayers today is a testament to his commitment to associate with different religions in the country, the President does not show favoritism or siding with one religious group," he said.

Sosola said gone are the days when there used to be segregation because of one's religion, the president has led by example by attending different religious celebrations.

"There is a small group that wants to divide this nation due to their political greed and ambitions, as religious leaders we will not allow such divisions to bring disunity," he said.

One of the Organizing members of the prayers, Uladi Mussa said it was an honour for the President to attend the prayers making him the second president in the country's history to attend such prayers in Salima district.

He commended the president for bringing food items which will be distributed to Muslims in the district, because Eid UL Fitr is about sharing and feeding those in need.

Prayers for Harmonious Co-existence and Unity in Malaw were offered by Sheikh Yamin Gulani, Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM).

The main preaching was on lessons on fasting. perseverance and continuity of morality by Sheikh Swaleh Chilundu, Vice Chairman, Majilis Ulama Council of Malawi.