Top leaders in Somalia's Puntland State government attended Eid celebrations Sunday, marking the end of Islam's holy month of Ramadan among thousands of civilians.

Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed "Farole" and Vice President Gen. Abdisamad Ali Shire were present among top Puntland government officials at Mire Aware Stadium in Garowe, the capital of Puntland, including Cabinet ministers, lawmakers and senior security officials.

Before Eid prayer, Sheikh Abdulkadir Nur Farah offered the opening speech and spoke at length about the religious significance of Ramadan and Eid celebrations.

Sheikh Abdulkadir, who is one of Puntland' most well-known Islamic scholars, told the crowd to pray to Allah (God) for forgiveness and prosperity.

"The leaders of former pirates have approached us [scholars] and requested our assistance, because [Puntland] society has rejected them [former pirates]," Sheikh Abdulkadir said.

He noted that the former pirates have been isolated by society and have complained that locals do not buy homes or cars from them, and parents do not allow their daughters to marry men associated with piracy.

"But I am convinced that this group has repented," said Sheikh Abdulkadir, adding that some of the former pirates now pray at mosques, "which did not happen before."

He called on the Puntland government to welcome the former pirates and to create job opportunities for them.

President Farole spoke briefly about Eid celebrations and warned Muslims against "religious disputes," which he said can lead to endless problems. He urged all Muslims to celebrate Eid "together to symbolize Islamic unity."

He praised the people of Puntland for keeping up the peace and urged the public to maintain order, saying: "No progress can come without peace."

Speaking about former pirates, President Farole said the Puntland government "accepts" the pirates who repented and quit criminal activities.

"The Government will ensure that they [former pirates] are not involved in piracy before offering any job opportunities [to them]," Puntland's leader said.

Thousands of Muslims prayed at various locations in Garowe and the city was teeming with young children, toys and excitement.

The State House in Garowe was opened to the public after Eid prayers, as people came to greet President Farole, Vice President Shire and members of the Puntland government.

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