PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar paid a special visit to the Peter’s Hall Jamaat yesterday as Muslim brothers and sisters gathered to celebrate the birth of their prophet Muhammad. In his address, President Ramotar said that unlike many others, Guyanese enjoy freedom of worship. He posited that, “freedom and justice are priceless things,” and that, “we must guard our freedom as government continues to fight to protect the our rights”.
President Ramotar encouraged the gathering to dedicate themselves to the development of the country, to raising the quality of life for people.
A significant portion of the National Budget is allocated to social sectors with the aim of benefitting citizens, empowering them through education and things that will give them security, the president noted.
The President drew attention to the current situation in some parts of the world. He said, “We should give our solidarity to those people who are fighting for their freedom” and implored that people should let their voices be heard.
 “We must see our world as one. We must also understand now too, that what happens in one part of the world can have effects on us…in one way or the other. Such issues as food security, climate change, poverty and environmental degradation are concerns for everyone.”

Secretary to the Peter’s Hall Jamaat, Skeik Salim, praised the President for his commitment to the people of Guyana. Salim said that the Peter’s Hall Jamaat appreciates President Ramotar’s focus on building meaningful relationships in the religious community and the international arena. He welcomed the President’s encouragement to consider the people of other nations who are still fighting for their freedom and human rights.
On January 24 every year, the Muslim community celebrates Muhammad’s birth in AD 570. During his life, he established Islam as a religion.