Share

Prince William reconnects with Christchurch Muslim community during Ramadaan one year after mosque attacks

accreditation
Prince William (Photo: Getty Images)
Prince William (Photo: Getty Images)

Prince William made a special call to members of the Muslim community in Christchurch, New Zealand.

"As-salamu alaykum," he said to Imams and representatives from the Al Noor and Linwood mosques - the two mosques where Brenton Tarrant opened fire, killing 51 people and injuring 49 in a terrorist attack in March 2019.

After visiting Christchurch and meeting Imam Alani Lateef, Imam Gamal Fouda and Farid Ahmad at the time of the tragedy to pay his respects, Prince William video called to see how the community is doing 14 months later.

They shared a few stories with the duke, as well as how life has changed during the holy month of Ramadaan this year, amid the global pandemic, reports People.

"I'm really proud of all of you, the whole community and the New Zealand Government for how you have all dealt with such an atrocity," William said. "You are a role model for how something so tragic can be negotiated with the utmost grace and dignity."

SEE A SNIPPET FROM THEIR CHAT HERE:

On 15 March 2019, Prince William first visited Al Noor mosque where he gave a poignant speech to members of the Christchurch community. "On the map New Zealand might look like an isolated land, but in the weeks that followed 15 March, the moral compass of the world was centred here in Christchurch. You showed the way we must respond to hate: with love."

He added: "I stand with you in firm belief that the forces of love will always prevail over the forces of hate.

"In a moment of acute pain, you stood up, and you stood together. And in reaction to tragedy, you achieved something remarkable."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle also made an unplanned trip to New Zealand after hearing about the attacks. They signed a book of condolence on behalf of the royal family with the words: "We are with you."  

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE