The government yesterday joined other countries around the world in condemning the “cowardly attack” on the American Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, which claimed the life of United States Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three embassy staff members.
“We are shocked and dismayed by the disregard for life and this overt and violent display of intransigence by a fanatical minority towards the principles of freedom of expression and sovereignty, tenets that we hold so dear,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fred Mitchell.
“The Bahamas reiterates its commitment to freedom, democracy, tolerance – in the face of dissenting points of view – and the prevalence of the rule of law as foundational pillars to an ordered and peaceful society.”
He continued, “Diplomacy must always be the preferred option in resolving conflicts, whether the conflicts exist on a personal, national or international level.”
The Official Opposition also condemned the attacks.
“The Free National Movement joins with the world community in expressing outrage over the senseless attacks upon U.S. Embassy and Diplomatic facilities in Egypt and Libya, which occurred yesterday, as well as the barbaric murder of the US ambassador, and three other U.S. staff members, in the City of Benghazi, Libya,” a statement said. “We express deepest sympathies to all the bereaved families.”
The FNM also called for the most forthright and strongest response to such “unbridled barbarism.”
“The Government of Libya, which has apologised for what it calls “criminal acts,” must go further and bring all the criminal murderers to justice,” the Opposition said.
“The United States government and, indeed the international community must make it absolutely clear that any attack upon diplomatic staff, officials or property will not be tolerated and that any such criminals will be rooted out and receive the harshest penalties. They must also manifestly demonstrate to Libya and the watching world the seriousness of their response to such events.”
As news spread of the attacks US President Barack Obama immediately condemned the “outrageous” act.
“Right now, the American people have the families of those we lost in our thoughts and prayers. They exemplified America’s commitment to freedom, justice, and partnership with nations and people around the globe, and stand in stark contrast to those who callously took their lives,” President Obama said.
“I have directed my administration to provide all necessary resources to support the security of our personnel in Libya, and to increase security at our diplomatic posts around the globe. While the United States rejects efforts to denigrate the religious beliefs of others, we must all unequivocally oppose the kind of senseless violence that took the lives of these public servants”.
He continued, “On a personal note, Chris was a courageous and exemplary representative of the United States. Throughout the Libyan revolution, he selflessly served our country and the Libyan people at our mission in Benghazi. As ambassador in Tripoli, he has supported Libya’s transition to democracy. His legacy will endure wherever human beings reach for liberty and justice. I am profoundly grateful for his service to my administration, and deeply saddened by this loss.”
