Statement by President Kgalema Motlanthe on the occassions of Eidul Fitr and Rosh Hashana

29 September 2008

It is one of those important moments of coincidence when two of the great faiths in the world celebrate their Holy days almost simultaneously. I have therefore, wished both the Muslim community well on Eidul Fitr, and the Jewish community for Rosh Hashana.

Eidul Fitr is the celebration after Muslims have fasted in the month of Ramadaan, while Rosh Hashana is the celebration of the Jewish New Year. Both celebrations are filled with messages of renewal and hope following sacrifice and the remembrance of suffering. Both Communities have taught us a capacity to endure hardships without losing faith, hope and optimism.

These are qualities that all South Africans would do well to recommit to. Our nation too is constantly renewing itself, and we should do so with faith, hope and optimism.
I want to commend Muslims and Jews in South Africa for being and example of co-existence here in the Southern tip of Africa. This shows, yet again, what remarkable people South Africans are and how visionary and durable our democracy is.

To all Muslim and Jews: I wish you well for Eidul Fitr and Rosh Hashana.

For more information, please contact:

Presidential Spokesperson Thabang Chiloane on (012) 300 5311/ 082 8888 783