APA-Pretoria (South Africa) South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the country’s diverse Christian denominations “a prayerful and peaceful” Easter holiday as citizens celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ in various churches nationwide starting on Friday.
“May this Easter bring us together as families and as a nation to ease some of the challenges that have affected our communities and families in recent weeks, including incidents of violent crime and carnage on our roads,” the president said in a message to the nation.
Ramaphosa called on the nation to observe this Easter weekend with care and consideration for families and communities affected by recent natural disasters and incidents of violent crime.
“We can all play our part by reporting risky behaviour or criminal activity, by moderating the way we socialise with alcohol, and by avoiding conflict within our families or circles of friends,” he said.
He urged those travelling around the country during this period to take good care of one another.
“Our roads aren’t dangerous. It’s our behaviour on the roads that’s dangerous,” the president said.
Ramaphosa also extended best wishes to the Muslim community who are approaching the mid-point of the month of Ramadan, as well as the Jewish community who are observing Passover.
NM/jn/APA