President Mohammed Shahabuddin has called upon all citizens to work together to build a just, democratic, non-communal and prosperous Bangladesh inspired by the ideals of Eid-ul-Azha.
In a message issued on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, one of the biggest religious festivals of Muslims, the Head of State said the values of the holy festival should guide national life.
“Let us uphold the great ideals of Eid-ul-Azha in our hearts, inspired by the spirit of unity instead of division, compassion instead of violence, justice instead of selfishness, and equality instead of discrimination,” he said.
In a video message recorded at Bangabhaban on the morning of Eid, the President extended heartfelt greetings and “Eid Mubarak” to the people of Bangladesh and the Muslim Ummah worldwide.
He said Eid-ul-Adha strengthens the values of sacrifice, fraternity, harmony and social solidarity, while also carrying a timeless message of giving up hatred, arrogance and destructive impulses within oneself.
The President urged people to share the joy of Eid with the poor and underprivileged, as well as with relatives and neighbours.
He also called on affluent sections of society to come forward to ensure the rights and welfare of the disadvantaged.
Emphasising environmental protection and public health, he made a special appeal for cooperation with authorities in the prompt disposal of sacrificial waste and maintaining cleanliness across the country.
Later at noon, President Shahabuddin and his wife Dr Rebecca Sultana exchanged Eid greetings at Bangabhaban with people from various walks of life.
Cabinet members, the Chief Election Commissioner, judges, Cabinet Secretary, chiefs of the armed forces, ambassadors, Bangladesh Bank Governor, Inspector General of Police and senior officials of the President’s Office attended the Eid reception held at Durbar Hall from 11am.
Distinguished personalities, senior politicians, writers, journalists, academics, intellectuals and high-ranking civil and military officials were also present.
Earlier at around 7:30am, the President offered Eid prayers at the National Eidgah and joined the munajat.
He exchanged greetings with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury and members of the Council of Advisers, and also greeted worshippers present at the congregation.
