Addis Ababa, March 19, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended his congratulations to Muslims in Ethiopia and across the world on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, calling on citizens to uphold peace, social harmony, and active participation in the country’s democratic process.
In his message, the Prime Minister described Eid al-Fitr as the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan, emphasizing its role in fostering spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and compassion. He said that the blessings of the holiday are experienced by those who observed Ramadan through sincere fasting, prayer, acts of charity, and forgiveness, noting that the spiritual rewards are closely tied to individual commitment and moral conduct.
Abiy highlighted the upcoming general elections as a historic opportunity for Ethiopia’s democratic journey, stressing that the success of the elections depends on active citizen engagement. He observed that weak participation could undermine democracy and underlined that a robust democratic system requires cooperation, adherence to the rule of law, and a commitment to peaceful conduct.
Drawing lessons from Ramadan, the Prime Minister linked perseverance, patience, and moral discipline to national progress, explaining that just as a good harvest depends on the seeds sown, the strength of Ethiopia’s democracy depends on the active and meaningful involvement of its citizens.
He also emphasized the moral and social dimensions of Ramadan and Eid, describing them as a framework for nurturing harmony with oneself, one’s faith, and the wider community. He noted that fasting cultivates self-discipline, prayer strengthens spiritual connection, and acts of charity and communal solidarity foster unity and social cohesion.
The Prime Minister cautioned that individuals lacking inner harmony and moral grounding could threaten societal stability, linking conflict, destructive behavior, and lawlessness to the breakdown of these core values. He urged citizens to reject violence, destruction of livelihoods, and other behaviors that undermine peace and development.
Abiy stressed that Ethiopia’s prosperity and stability are determined by the collective actions of its citizens, noting that the country grows when its people build, remains peaceful when its citizens are at peace, and advances when they work together in unity. He encouraged Ethiopians to embrace responsibility, self-reliance, and shared sacrifice in promoting national development.
Concluding his message, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the celebration of Eid al-Fitr would inspire renewed commitment to compassion, unity, and civic responsibility, reinforcing the values of peace, social harmony, and democratic participation as guiding principles for Ethiopia’s future.