Democratic decisions should be based on common good, not religious belief

The Nationalist Party used the occasion of Iftar, the breaking of the Ramadan fast for Muslims, to brandish its secularist identity in the first ever celebration of the occasion by Opposition leader Simon Busuttil.

“The PN respects religious freedoms and guarantees the liberty and right of everybody to express their faith,” Busuttil said yesterday.

The event was organised by the PN’s equal opportunities forum FOIPN and members of the Muslim community.

“Our vision is that of a pluralist, secular and free society where everyone enjoys their full right to express their belief, without impinging upon the liberty of others to do likewise or on society’s right to take democratic decisions based not on some religious belief, but on the common good,” the Opposition leader said.

Busuttil said people in public life who expected others with different religious beliefs not to express their opinion, were “antiliberal” and threatened other peoples’ basic rights.

“The PN believes in the dignity of every human being, and we endorse this rainbow of beliefs. The Muslim community is an integral part of Maltese society,” Busuttil said.

Imam Mohammed El Sadi was also present for the occasion, and gave thanks to Busuttil for the party’s hospitality.