Vice President thanks scholars for efforts to promote religious unity during COVID-19

Vice President Faisal Naseem has thanked religious scholars for their efforts to promote religious unity among Maldivians during COVID-19. He made the remarks at a special meeting held at the Islamic Centre, this evening.

During the meeting, the Vice President talked about the need for solidarity within the community and the important role of religious scholars in promoting peace and unity amongst our community. He further expressed the need for scholars to focus their energy on spreading the message of Islam, including the values of generosity and compassion towards each other through all walks of life.

The Vice President said that the discontinuation of congregational prayers and the closing down of mosques as a precautionary measure to combat the spread of COVID-19 virus was one of the single most difficult decision made by the administration within the past few months. He added that it is delightful that we, as a community, have successfully managed to contain the spread of the virus in the country and that we will be restarting Friday prayers in mass congregation in Male’ region starting tomorrow.

Vice President Faisal Naseem also conveyed sincere appreciation and gratitude to all religious scholars on behalf of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Emphasizing the importance of conveying unambiguous religious messages to reach a wider audience, he added that the government wishes to work closely alongside religious scholars to promote unity and harmony within the community.

Religious scholars who spoke at the meeting thanked the administration for its stance on religious matters, stating that it is a pleasure to work closely with the government as it heeds the collective advice and guidance from religious scholars during policymaking.

Upon conclusion, the Vice President met with the staff of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and observed the progress of the removal of floor carpets at the Islamic Centre in preparation of the congregational Friday prayer to be held tomorrow.

Vice President Faisal Naseem was accompanied by the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Ahmed Zahir, Chief of staff at the President’s Office, Uz. Ali Zahir and Minister at the President’s Office, Ahmed Sameer.