Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has described as shocking and almost beyond comprehension the mass shooting in Christchurch.

“Today, as news of a mass shooting at mosques in Christchurch unfolds, Fijian hearts are breaking for our brothers and sisters in New Zealand.

“Across all religions, our houses of worship are a source of refuge, of prayer, and of love; to see such a heinous and hate-filled act occur in what should be places of peace is the darkest of evils.”

He said the Fijian people stand with our Pacific family in this time of suffering and sadness.

“We condemn all forms of hatred and terror.

“Fiji will be working closely with authorities in New Zealand to monitor the welfare of Fijians in Christchurch, and will provide updates as they are made available,” he said.

Opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka posted on his Facebook page that it was a sad day for all people who have had some sort of association with New Zealand and New Zealanders.
“The multiple targeted and multiple casualties attacks on people at their worship sites in Christchurch is really a sad realization of the tragedies of non-tolerance and hate.
“My heart goes out to the relatives of the casualties and dead and to the Governor General, the Prime Minister and her Cabinet, and the people of this great neighbour, at this tragic time, and to the leaders and followers of the affected Faith, we feel your grief and loss. May Almighty God grant you all Peace.”

Fiji Labour Party also issued a statement condemning the acts of violence.

“Our prayers and thoughts are with the government and people of New Zealand, and with the people and families who have suffered injuries or have lost loved
ones as a result of this horrific incidence of violence and what clearly tantamounts to an unleashing of racial hatred.

“To attack innocent people particularly when they are at prayers, is simply barbaric and we denounce it in the strongest terms possible.”