Livingstonia Synod court controversy with Muslims: Says no Eid holiday

The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) in the Synod of Livingstonia in the northern part of Malawi has said it does not recognise a public holiday on June 7 for observance of Eid’l Fitr or the Feast of Ramadan by the Muslims

The synod has informed workers in its institution as well as followers to work on the Eid-al-Fitr day a development  that contradict with government decision of declaring the day a public holiday.

Eid’l Fitr marks the end of the holy month of fasting for Muslims.

Muslim Association of Malawi said the day will be celebrated on Thursday July 7 and government declared the day as a public holiday to allow Muslims to celebrate.

According to the document seen by Nyasa Times and signed by Livingstonia Synod General Secretary Rev Levi Nyondo, the Synod does not recognize the day as holiday.

“It has been announced in the radio and newspapers that 7 July, 2016 is a public holiday of Eid. However as a Synod of Livingstonia, we do not recognize that,” reads the letter.

“Please not that all Synod employees are expected to report to their respective duties on the day,” it commanded.

The letter further reminds its followers that “the Synod of Livingstonia holidays are as follows; Christmas, Easter, ascension day, Dr David Livingstone day and 12 October- Robert Laws day.”

The development has provoked many Muslims in the country who regard the Christmas day as public holiday in respect to the Christians.

Some quarters have described the decision as unfortunate especially because Malawi is described as a God fearing nation.

Malawian Rasta community have been also advocating for government to declare their celebration Jah day as public holiday to no avail.

In Malawi there is a  peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims.