Africa-Press – Liberia. Three senators have introduced a bill in the Liberian Senate seeking to establish specific Muslim and Christian holidays as national public holidays.
The proposed legislation, titled “An Act to Establish Certain Religious Holidays in the Republic of Liberia”, was submitted to the Senate plenary on Tuesday, May 20, by Senators Edwin Snowe of Bomi County, Amara Konneh of Gbarpolu County, and Joseph Jallah of Lofa County. The senators said the bill is intended to foster religious inclusivity and promote national unity.
The proposed law calls for the official recognition of Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan Day) and Eid al-Adha (Abraham Day) as national holidays.
The senators argue that Liberia’s current holiday calendar reflects mostly Christian observances and does not represent the religious diversity of the population.
The move follows consistent appeals from the Muslim community in Liberia for equal recognition of their major religious festivals.
Although Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are widely observed with closures of schools, businesses, and public offices, they have never been formally legislated as national holidays.
Senator Jallah had previously pledged to pursue this legislation during a public event marking the 50th anniversary of Lofa County, citing the importance of religious representation in national policy.
In their communication to the Senate, the lawmakers noted that recognizing key religious holidays would strengthen mutual respect and social cohesion in Liberia. They emphasized that Liberia is a pluralistic society where both Christians and Muslims contribute to national peace and development.
The senators cited Article 14 of the 1986 Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom and prohibits preferential treatment for any religion. They said the bill aligns with constitutional principles and the country’s commitment to equality.
The bill received its first reading following a motion by Senator Francis Dopoe of River Gee County, in accordance with the Senate’s rules and procedures.
Reactions to the bill have been mixed. Some citizens support the initiative, while others view it as unnecessary or potentially divisive.
Sekou Konneh, a Liberian, expressed skepticism on social media. He questioned the relevance of religious holidays, arguing that spiritual practice extends beyond designated days.
He sentiments were echoed by Youjay Debah: “Liberia is okay as the way it is without a Christian and Muslim holiday. Such act by these three guys is the start of division. If that is passed into law then the constitution must be amended to make Liberia a religious state because it will be recognizing Christianity and Islam as its two religions and when Liberia becomes a religious state we should expect religious laws.
Festus Jupodeh also opposed the bill, stating that Liberia already has too many holidays with limited economic benefit. He urged lawmakers to focus on issues that would directly improve citizens’ lives and warned against legislation that might inflame religious tensions. He referenced Article 14 as support for maintaining the country’s secular stance.
Ahmed Trawallay, responding to criticism of religious holidays, questioned whether Islamic institutions should then remain open on Christian holidays, suggesting the need for balance.
He was backed by Stephen Tokpa: “Fully supported. Religious tolerance is a human right. Having a holiday to worship and reference God far more better than holidays to remember people who failed this Nation.”
The bill remains under review and is expected to be subject to further debate and scrutiny in the Senate.
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