In a move aimed at giving Muslims in Ghana a chance to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival of breaking the annual Ramadan fast, with their families and loved ones, the government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, as statutory public holidays.
This decision was made after it was realized that Sunday, March 30, which marks Eid-ul-Fitr, falls on a weekend.
According to a statement signed by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the declaration was made by the President of the Republic of Ghana, in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601).
The statement noted that the decision was taken in the interest of the public, particularly Muslims, who would have otherwise celebrated the festival on a Sunday.
Eid-ul-Fitr is a significant festival in the Islamic calendar, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.
Muslims in Ghana and around the world celebrate the festival with prayers, feasting, and merriment.
The declaration of Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, as public holidays will enable Muslims to celebrate the festival with their families and loved ones without having to worry about work or school commitments.
The government’s decision has been welcomed by Muslims, who have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr with their loved ones for two days.
The declaration of the two days holiday is also expected to boost economic activities, as people will have more time to engage in business ventures.
