Watch: President Ramaphosa participates in Eid prayers

President Cyril Ramaphosa has been praised for participating in a prayer marking the Islamic celebration of Eid in South Africa. 

The 71-year-old marked the occasion in Laudium, Pretoria, with a group of men.

Earlier this week, Muslims around the country ended the month of fasting, known as Ramadan.

CYRIL RAMAPHOSA PRAISED FOR EID PRAYERS

In a clip posted on social media, Cyril Ramaphosa and his bodyguards are seen participating in the “salah” [prayer].

The president followed the actions of the men by lifting his hands, bending his knees, and kneeling on the ground.

He tweeted from his official X account: “Joined the morning prayer in Laudium this morning to wish the Muslim community a blessed Eid Mubarak and deliver an address as they celebrate the end of the fast. We wish Muslims in South Africa and around the world a blessed and joyous Eid-ul-Fitr”.

In the comment section, many members of the Muslim community praised the president for his acknowledgement of their faith.

Skhesha: “What a humble man. He respects everyone, irrespective of colour, culture, creed, religion, or language.”

Nghoosen: “Respect for him for trying and making an effort.”

Bongihoosen: “Thank you, Mr President, for joining the Eid prayer. May Allah make it easy for you.”

@harmless_potato_#eid#fyp#harmless_potato#fypシsomeone♬ original sound – Harmless_Potato

Last month, Ramaphosa showed his support to a delegation who appealed to the International Court of Justice demanding that Israel “immediately suspend its military operations in and against Gaza.”

He said in a statement: “The world has to do something; hence, we’ve called for an immediate ceasefire and a humanitarian one at that so that food and other supplies can come in. South Africa is determined to continue supporting the people of Palestine”.

FROM PREACHER TO PRESIDENT

Before venturing into politics, a young Cyril Ramaphosa was hailed for being a praise and worship singer and preacher at the Mphaphuli High School in Sibasa in Limpopo. The role earned him the position of chairperson of the Students’ Christian Movement, reported the Sowetan.

Reverend Kenneth Meshoe of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) said of Ramaphosa’s younger days: “We used to pray together, have bible studies together, we were on fire for God.”

He added: “He was my role model. I loved him”.

Ramaphosa recently visited the Vosloorus church, Fire Tabernacle Prophetic Ministries, where he delivered a message to the congregation.

Thanking the church for its help in the community, he said in a clip: “May God give you much more than the little you have.”