–President Ali, Prime Minister Phillips say in Youman Nabi messages

REFLECTING on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad to commemorate the celebration of Youman Nabi, President Dr. Irfaan Ali highlighted the importance of harmony in Guyana’s multi-religious and multi-ethnic fabric, urging citizens to reject division and embrace unity.
“If you’re to build a just, harmonious and prosperous society, you must resist the forces that divide and weaken us. You must strive to put things into perspective, to avoid any act that seeks to undercut the unity,” the President said, emphasising that building a just, harmonious, and prosperous society requires standing firm against forces that divide and weaken.
He reminded citizens that Youman Nabi is a sacred occasion of reflection, reverence, and renewal, offering a timely opportunity to look inward and draw from the Prophet’s life as a source of enduring light.

“His teachings instruct us that true greatness lies not in wealth or power, but in mercy, unity and service to others. His mission was not only to convey the message of Allah, but also to embody it through kindness to the poor, fairness to the marginalised, and respect for all of humanity,” he added.
The Head of State said that these teachings should be seen as a reminder, and a personal note to Guyana, as national unity should remain a cornerstone of Guyana’s ongoing development and social progress.

He related: “For us in Guyana, it is a timely reminder that division weakens us, but unity that spans faith, ethnicities and communities strengthens the bond that binds our people together. We are to live as brothers and sisters in our multi-religious and multiethnic Guyana.”
The true test of devotion is seen in actions towards others, especially the vulnerable, and the President called for the embodiment of the Prophet’s compassion and unity to enrich the nation.
“The true test of our devotion is seen in the way we treat each other, including the most vulnerable and the forgotten. It is about how we show empathy; it’s about how we show love,” President Ali said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips also delivered a message in observance of Youman Nabi, underscoring the continued relevance of the Prophet’s life and teachings.
“Today, as we observe Youman Nabi, we pause to honour the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon Him. This is a moment of profound significance for our Muslim brothers and sisters, and for all of us as a nation that values faith, peace, and the ties that bind us together,” the PM said.
He noted that the Prophet’s life was one of service to his followers and all of humanity.
“He lived with humility, he led with compassion, he stood for justice, even when it was difficult, and he reminded us that true dignity lies in how we treat each other rather than in status and wealth,” he added.

These lessons Phillips opined speak across time, faiths and borders.
“They speak to us now, as Guyanese, as we work together to build a more just, more caring society,” he said, adding: “Here in Guyana, we are blessed with something rare and powerful: The freedom to believe, worship, and live together in mutual respect. Our diversity is part of who we are but it is also the strength that carries us forward.”