RELIGION > What the Koran Say Ramadan And The Prices Of Commodities In Sierra Leone Posted by A.Y Kallay on Sep 13, 2007, 14:44

As the Holy Month of Ramadan gets closer, possibly on the 13th September , fears continue to rise among the general public about increase in prices of basic and consumables. In fact, it is the tradition for some economic operators to unjustifiably create an artificial shortage of goods in order to maximize profits. It is in view of this that the Consumers Association to step in with the sole objective of containing any attempt on the part of the business community to jeopardize the interest of Sierra Leonean people through unnecessary price increases. The defense of the consumers against artificial increases of goods needs to be addressed with responsibility. The malpractices that take place every year, during the holy Month of Ramadan, cannot be allowed to continue without any form of adequate checks and balances. Generally, the excuse advanced by businessmen, petty traders inclusive has been the exchange rate between the dollars to the Leones. Such excuse is now monotonous and unacceptable as it is repeated at all times by the business community, irrespective of the seasons. The whole issue seems to be unrealistic, as the Holy Month of Ramadan constitutes an opportune time for all Muslims to be merciful and helpful to their Muslim brothers and sisters. Paradoxically, the practice these days are far from the real principles of Islam.