Siddiq Koya negotiated for a public holiday for the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday - NFP

The importance of the observance of the Prophet’s Birthday to be marked with a national public holiday can be rightfully credited to former NFP Leader Siddiq Moidin Koya, who in 1974 negotiated with the then Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara for public holidays for the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday and Diwali.

This was stated by the National Federation Party as they wished Fiji’s Muslim community a blessed celebrations as it observes the birthday of the founder of Islam, Prophet Muhammad.

NFP Leader Professor Biman Prasad says it is pleasing to see the Muslim community conforming to the Prophet’s principles, particularly his social and religious teachings.

Professor Prasad says Prophet Muhammad’s political principles are admirable as he espoused peace, harmony and tolerance.

He says they wish the Muslim community a blessed celebration of their Prophet’s birthday in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation.