It’s a sad day for humanity when our best choice is to put to death people who have acted in a way that offends us. I believe in a better world, a world of compassion and forgiveness, a world of love, tolerance, understanding and kindness. A world that recognises the flaws and faults in human nature and that all have the ability to stray far from their own truth and joy. A world that always leaves doors open to those who wish to return to the truth of who they are and make amends. A world that celebrates learning, growth and development. A world that sees any form of violence or abuse as working against the best interests of humanity as a whole. A world that honours and defends the ultimate right of love to prevail.

Deepest condolences to the families of Andrew Chan, Myuran Sukumaran Okwuduli Oyatanze, Martin Anderson, Raheem Agbaje Salami, Silvester Obiekwe Nwolise, Rodrigo Gularte and Zainal Abidinwho have now been given a terrible burden to bear. May you choose the path of forgiveness and love that you may be liberated from this awful moment in your lives. May your loved ones now rest in peace.

Deepest condolences to the men who ordered these deaths and the men who held the guns which shot dead sons, brothers, uncles, fathers, cousins and friends of the people who are suffering great loss today. May you find a way to forgive yourselves for the commission of this terrible crime against your fellow men.

Let this day be one of change. Let this day be the day humanity realises the folly of acts of violence against another. Let the pain of this moment provoke a change for the better. Let the pain of this moment move people to act and prevent more families from suffering such an irretrievable loss. Let love find a way.