By Alfred Opio
The Woman Member of Parliament-elect for pallisa District, has commended the Muslim fraternity in the district for observing a peaceful and disciplined Ramadan period, free from criminal activities and internal conflicts.
Her remarks come at the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period characterized by fasting, prayer, reflection, and acts of charity among Muslims worldwide.
Speaking to our reporter shortly after Eid celebrations, Hon. Achola expressed her satisfaction with the level of unity and discipline demonstrated by Muslims across Pallisa, noting that the absence of crime and misunderstandings during such a spiritually significant period is a sign of strong moral values within the community.
❝ “I want to sincerely thank the Muslim fraternity in Pallisa for the exemplary conduct they have shown throughout Ramadan. It is not always easy to maintain such high levels of discipline, but you have proven that with faith and commitment, it is possible.” ❞
— Catherine Achola
She further noted that in previous years, festive periods in some areas have occasionally been marked by misunderstandings, minor disputes, and even criminal incidents. However, this year stood out as a unique example of harmony and mutual respect among believers.
❝ “As leaders, we are always concerned about the safety and well-being of our people, especially during festive seasons. I am glad that throughout this Ramadan, there were no reports of fighting or criminal cases among the Muslim community in Pallisa. This is a great achievement that deserves recognition.” ❞
— Catherine Achola
Hon. Achola attributed this peaceful coexistence to the teachings of Islam, which emphasize patience, forgiveness, and compassion, especially during Ramadan, and encouraged other communities to emulate the same spirit of unity and peaceful living.
She also used the opportunity to reaffirm her commitment to supporting all religious groups in the district, emphasizing that development and harmony go hand in hand. According to her, when communities live in peace, it becomes easier for leaders to implement development programs and improve service delivery.
During the Ramadan period, Hon. Achola extended support to the Muslim community by donating essential food items, including posho and sugar, to help families break their fast with dignity. The donation was widely welcomed, especially among vulnerable households who often struggle to meet basic needs during the fasting period.
In response, members of the Muslim community expressed deep gratitude for her generosity and timely intervention. Several believers noted that the donation came at a critical time and helped ease the burden on many families.
One of the Muslim leaders in the district, speaking on behalf of the community, praised Hon. Achola for standing with them during Ramadan.
❝ “We are very grateful to Hon. Catherine Achola for remembering us during this holy month. The posho and sugar she provided helped many families to have decent meals while observing the fast. This act of kindness shows that she is a leader who cares about her people.” ❞
— Muslim Community Leader
Another Muslim faithful echoed similar sentiments, noting that such gestures strengthen the bond between leaders and the communities they serve.
❝ “It is not common to see leaders who come down to support people during important religious periods. Hon. Achola has shown us true leadership by supporting us not just in words but in action. We thank her and pray that God blesses her abundantly.” ❞
— Muslim Faithful
The Muslim community also pledged to continue upholding peace, unity, and discipline even beyond Ramadan, emphasizing that the values practiced during the holy month should guide their daily lives.
Hon. Achola concluded by urging the community to maintain the same spirit of harmony and avoid any actions that could disrupt the peace they have worked hard to achieve.
❝ “Let this not end with Ramadan. Continue being ambassadors of peace in your homes and communities. When we live in unity, we build a stronger and better Pallisa for everyone.” ❞
— Catherine Achola
The peaceful conclusion of Ramadan in Pallisa has been hailed by leaders and residents as a positive sign of social cohesion, offering hope for continued harmony and development in the district.
