Christchurch massacre shocks student community

Nadi Airport Islamic Society held an interfaith prayer event for the victims of the Christchurch terror attack. Picture: SUPPLIED/SHANE HUSSEIN/WANSOLWARA

By SEREANA SALALO

The recent terror attack at two Christchurch mosques in New Zealand has left the student community at The University of the South Pacific in shock.

At least 50 people were killed when a gunman carried out an unprecedented terrorist attack at the Masjid Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Masjid Mosque last Friday, live streaming the horrific attack on social media.

Three Fijians, including Imam Hafiz Musa Patel of Lautoka, were victims of the violent act.

USP politics and law student Siddiq Akif Koya knew Imam Hafiz while growing up as a child in the Western Division.

“Peace be upon him. I knew him as a child. I’ve always seen him in our congregation. I was quite shocking when I heard not only of the events but that he (Imam Hafiz) was part of the high number of victims,” Koya told Wansolwara yesterday.

“I think any act of terror must be condemned regardless of the motive behind it. As far as this incident is concerned, it really hit quite close to the heart because not only was it a neighbouring country but fellow Fijians were victims of this attack.

“I think this incident is a rude awakening to this region, because usually in this region we take for granted how peaceful it is; we never really expect this type of thing to happen.

“This serves as a reminder that hate exists and there’s still a lot more we can do and I think as generations come, we need to start showing more solidarity in regards to fighting and holding hate accountable.”

USP Islamic Society Students Association president Abraar Shah said some victims of the Christchurch shootings were relatives of students at Laucala campus. Shah expressed his sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims.

“This is a very controversial issue for us to comment on but whether it is the Muslim community or any other community, such incidents are heartbreaking,” he said.

USP Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia shared a few words of comfort on his Twitter account.

“My deepest condolences to those in Christchurch who have lost a loved one, colleague or friend. Thoughts and prayers with you at this difficult time and also for those who are still recovering,” Prof Ahluwalia said.

While addressing members of the public at an open prayer event for victims on Sunday, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama assured the Muslim community in Fiji of their safety despite these acts of terrorism in the region.

“Acts of terror and terrorism, by their very nature, are meant to instill fear into the hearts of those groups who are targeted,” he said.

“As difficult as it may be, try not to let these acts of hatred intimidate you; that was the goal of the coward who committed these crimes.

“To our Muslim community, I say this: You are safe, and you are loved.”

Regional leaders such as the Pacific Islands Forum chairman and Nauru president Baron Divavesi Waqa also expressed sadness and shock over the incident.

“I convey to the victims, their families, the people and government of New Zealand, the deepest condolences of the Pacific Islands Forum on behalf of all our members,” he said in a statement.

“We are a Forum family and what affects one affects all. The people of New Zealand are in our thoughts and prayers.”

A memorial prayer vigil is expected to be held soon after talks between the USP Students Association and the USP Islamic Society Students Association this week.

• Sereana Salalo is a final-year journalism student at The University of the South Pacific in Suva.