A section of Muslims celebrate Idd-Ul Fitr

By Ally Jamah

Nairobi, Kenya: A section of Muslims in Kenya and around the world have begun celebrating the religious holiday of Idd Ul Fitr, while others will do so on Friday.

Faithful across the country have thronged mosques and public fields to celebrate the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan.

According to the Imam of Nairobi's Jamia Mosque Sheikh Muhammad Swalihu and the panel of Muslim scholars of Kenya, Idd Ul Fitr was announced after the crescent moon was sighted in various parts of the country and the globe on Wednesday evening signaling the end of fasting month of Ramadhan and beginning of Idd-Ul-Fitr.

He said that there are credible reports of the moon sighting from Garissa county and Saudi Arabia.

"Once the moon has been sighted anywhere in the world, we have no option but to declare Idd Ul Fitr," he said.

However, Chief Kadhi of Kenya Sheikh Ahmad Muhdhar has insisted that other faithful will celebrate Idd Ul Fitr Friday. This will coincide with the official public holiday gazetted by government.

"Despite the differences among Muslims in Kenya about the day of celebration, let us respect each other and work together to maintain peace and unity among Kenyans" he said.

Muslims who are celebrating Idd Ul Fitr today are expected to prepare special meals and visit family and friends to mark the special occasion.

Sheikh Abdulmalik Kipsang of Bungoma County's Tawhid mosque called on Muslims not to forget the needy members of the community and share with them food in order to enable them join in the cheer and festivities.

"Let us also share the fun with our fellow Kenyans who are not Muslims by inviting them into our houses and sharing our special meals. That will enhance good will and national unity" he said.