PM: See Face of God, Not Violence

By Prior Beharry

PEOPLE who see only crime and and violence and not the face of God will face consequences.

This is the message of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley on the occasion of Eid 2023.

He said, “I urge all citizens to join with our Muslim brothers and sisters today in celebration, recognising that in essence Islam, means peace. Let us spread that peace across our sacred land, called Trinidad and Tobago.

“Today, more than ever this land faces the challenges of a rising murder rate, which appears to be reflecting the mental state of our youths.

“Earlier this week, CARICOM leaders met here in Port of Spain to share their experiences of crime and violence in their countries, pointing to youth crime and violence as becoming a frightening problem in the Caribbean and worldwide.

“Today, the foundations of Islam warn that those who see only crime and violence, but not the face of God in their actions, that they will face the consequences — even if they escape the hands of the law today.”

He said, “Fellow citizens, in joining members of the Muslim community, we must all recognise that in spite of the various challenges we face at this moment, there must be that continued appreciation of our diversity, our cultural variety and religions that occupy our home space.

“The religious tolerance and respect for each other, displayed within our diversity, must be recognised as part of the greatness of ourselves as a people and our land.

On behalf of the Government of this great Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, members of my own family and myself as Prime Minister, I extend warm, celebratory greetings to all members of the Muslim community.”