The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Tolon in the Northern Region, Wahab Wumbei Suhuyini has saluted all Muslims and asked for God’s favour for all Muslims observing this year’s Ramadan.
Making a commemorative statement on the floor of parliament to mark this year’s Ramadan, the Tolon MP said fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is mandatory for all Muslims except the sick, the aged or a pregnant woman who is concerned about the safety of the unborn child as well as breastfeeding mothers.
“Mr Speaker, fasting is beyond abstaining from food, drink and sex, it involves self-deprivation, devotion, commitment, care, reflection,” he said stressing that the essence of fasting is to attain righteousness through self-restraint.
According to him, Holy Prophet Mohammed in Sahih al-Bukahri, Book 30, Hadith 13 said “whoever does not give up telling lies and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his food and drink,” which means Allah will not accept his fasting.
He said in line with doctrines of the Holy Quran, fasting means doing what is right and fair to all manner of persons.
“Muslims are encouraged to care for the vulnerable and the weak in the society including the poor and the needy,” Mr Suhuyini said
“Mr Speaker, it is significant to mention that the Holy Quran was revealed in this holy month of Ramadan. Muslims are therefore encouraged not only to recite and reflect on the meanings of the Holy Quran but to abide by its teachings”.
The Tolon MP explained that fasting has spiritual, health, economic and social benefits.
“Fasting enables believers to get closer to their Creator. Muslims reinforce the spirit of God-Consciousness when they are fasting, especially during this holy month”
According to the Tolon MP, fasting improves blood circulation, improves metabolism as the digestive system gets a break.
“Fasting also facilitates the breakdown of fats and therefore improves weight loss. Fasting enables a lot of people to overcome several forms of addiction and resort to healthy eating habits.”
The Minority Chief Whip and MP for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka said fasting is a period to ask Allah for forgiveness of all your sins and also change from all bad ways.
By Thomas Fosu Jnr