Millions of Ethiopian Muslims Gather for 1447th Eid al-Fitr as PM Abiy Ahmed Calls for Unity Ahead of June Elections

Millions of Ethiopian Muslims mark Eid al-Fitr with prayers at Addis Ababa Stadium as PM Abiy Ahmed urges unity for the upcoming June 2026 elections.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 20, 2026, 3:52 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from the Ethiopian News Agency

National Day of Spiritual Devotion and Gratitude

Across the diverse landscapes of Ethiopia, from the bustling capital to the quietest rural communities, millions of faithful gathered on Friday to mark the 1447th Eid al-Fitr. The day began with a massive assembly at the Addis Ababa Stadium, where the atmosphere was defined by colorful traditional attire, collective prayers, and a shared sense of spiritual victory. Led by Sheikh Haji Ibrahim Tufa, President of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, the central prayer served as a focal point for a nation celebrating the end of the holy month of Ramadan—a period dedicated to fasting, reflection, and heightened communal support.

PM Abiy Ahmed’s Message of Compassion and Victory

In a formal address to the Muslim community, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, framed the conclusion of Ramadan as a "profound spiritual victory." The Prime Minister’s message emphasized that the holy month is a transformative period where believers prioritize faith over personal desires and the welfare of the vulnerable over individual gain. By highlighting these virtues, the administration sought to align the religious values of the holiday with the broader national goals of empathy and social cohesion, urging citizens to carry the "spirit of brotherhood" into their daily lives.

Religious Coexistence as a National Pillar

A significant portion of the Prime Minister’s discourse was dedicated to Ethiopia’s long-standing history of religious harmony. He described Eid al-Fitr not just as a Muslim holiday, but as a powerful symbol of the peace and mutual respect that exists among Ethiopia’s varied faith groups. This narrative of "unity in diversity" remains a cornerstone of the current government’s domestic policy, particularly as it navigates the complex social dynamics of a multi-ethnic and multi-religious state. The Prime Minister encouraged all Ethiopians to celebrate by uplifting the underprivileged and sharing meals with neighbors of all backgrounds.