TRIPOLI – Libya’s capital, Tripoli, witnessed the Iftar (breaking of fast) cannon-firing ceremony – one of the most important traditions related to Ramadan in the country – revived after 48 years.
According to Anadolu Agency, the ceremony on the first day of Ramadan was held in Algiers Square here, and was regulated by the Municipality of Central Tripoli.
The launching ceremony of the tradition was also attended by the Head of the Municipality of Central Tripoli Ibrahim Al-Khulaifi, dignitaries, and citizens of the city, who expressed their happiness with the event.
“Iftar cannon firing is an old tradition for the people of Tripoli and we are happy with anything that supports bringing back the tradition and culture that is closely related to the people of the city.
“This tradition had been halted since 1975, and now we are determined to revive the tradition,” Al-Khulaifi told Anadolu.
Meanwhile, a member of the Central Tripoli Municipal Council, Akram Abdel Majid Dribkeh, said the purpose of reviving the tradition of firing Iftar cannons is to bring joy to the capital’s residents, as the current situation is that of peace and stability.
“This cannon was first fired at Istana Saraya (now the largest museum in Libya) in the early 70s… but after that, the tradition stopped”, he said.
Abdul Karim Al-Zarqani, a resident of the city of Tripoli, said the Iftar cannon is present in some Islamic countries and Libya is one of them.
He said the tradition of using cannons was created due to the lack of loudspeakers to alert the city’s residents that it is time for the Maghrib (sunset prayer) – which simultaneously marks the time for the breaking of fast.
“Reviving the tradition of Iftar cannon firing is joyful, because it’s previously one of the most important customs and is closely related to Ramadan in Tripoli; and it also forms part of the memories and history of the city”, he said. – Bernama
