We can still picture the flames that engulfed homes in several parts of the city. We can still picture billows of smoke rising far above the roofs of public and buildings. We can still feel the trauma of the hundreds of internally displaced victims of the senseless rebel onslaught who found refuge in this national sports stadium. Yes, we remember with sorrow those gallant individuals, soldiers, civil defence and other security personnel, as well as civilians, who gave their lives in defence of the city and its citizens. Brothers and sisters, two years later the memories of the 6th of January 1999 still linger in our hearts.
Today is indeed a day of remembrance.
It is perhaps ironic that this very day should also be observed as a day of thanksgiving. Fellow worshippers, I submit that we are not here to give thanks for the acts of terror perpetrated on this city and nation two years ago. On the contrary, we are here to give thanks to the Almighty for saving this capital and the seat of government from further destruction. We are thankful that the plotters did not succeed in their deadly design to grab by power by force, or failing that, to annihilate every living thing in sight. We are thankful because the situation and consequences could have been worse.