Former Chief Kadhi calls for unified Eid ul Fitr observance
Sheikh Hammad stressed that unity of the community was paramount stating that the constant divisions was creating a sense of disillusionment among young people.
The former Chief Kadhi Sheikh Hammad Muhammad Kassim has called for a united observance of Eid ul Fitr saying that this will spur unity of the community and further
Sheikh Hammad said it was disheartening that the divisions related to moon sighting had become a recurring factor at the beginning and end of Ramadhan as well as during Eid ul Adh’ha saying that this does not augur well for the unity of the community.
“It is my heartfelt wish that this time round, we all observe Eidul Fitr on the same day and inshallah even in the years to come, we start and break the fast together,” he said.
He put forward what he said was an amicable suggestion where those who started earlier with the international sighting complete fasting the 30 days of Ramadhan while those who followed the local sighting fast 29 days.
Speaking to Sahifa Media, Sheikh Hammad stressed that unity of the community was paramount stating that the divisive moon sighting issue was creating a sense of disillusionment among many people especially young people.
“Let us build confidence among our young people that Islam has a solution to this problem. It is high time that scholars sit and have an amicable agreement on this matter. With sincere hearts, we can get a lasting solution,” he said.
He said during his tenure as the Chief Kadhi, it was his desire that Muslims start the fast together and celebrate the two Eid festivals on thesame day though his efforts garnered little success.
He pointed out the goal remains attainable, noting that in the past Muslims observed the beginning of Ramadhan and celebrated the Eid festivities on the same day.
Sheikh Hammad retired in 2010 after serving as Kenya’s Chief Kadhi for eight years.