Mauritania announces Eid al-Fitr on Eid day, causing public confusion

The National Crescent Sighting Committee in Mauritania surprised citizens by announcing late last night that Sunday would be the first day of Eid al-Fitr.

The unexpected timing of the declaration sparked debate and confusion among the public.

In a statement, the committee's chairman, Judge Mohamed Mahmoud Ould Ghali, explained that after extensive communication with all regions, the committee confirmed widespread sightings of the crescent moon.

He noted that the reports came from mosque imams and legal witnesses across multiple areas, including Kankossa, Aghchorguitt, Zouérat, Boutilimit, Nouadhibou, Bassikounou, and others.

The late timing of the announcement ignited a wave of reactions on social media. Supporters of the decision argued that it upheld strict adherence to Islamic moon-sighting criteria, ensuring a legitimate confirmation of Eid.

However, critics contended that the delay was unnecessary and that an earlier decision would have prevented public confusion and disorder.