As an ordinary Japanese citizen, I was saddened and shocked by the assassination of former PM Abe Shinzo, but at the same time I was encouraged and healed to see countless condolence messages by the people from overseas including world political leaders and Her Majesty The Queen!
Mr. Donald Trump wrote:
“Few people know what a great man and leader Shinzo Abe was, but history will teach them and be kind,” “He was a unifier like no other, but above all, he was a man who loved and
cherished his magnificent country, Japan. Shinzo Abe will be greatly missed. There will never be another like him.”
Queen Elizabeth II sent a message of condolence to her counterpart in Japan, Emperor Naruhito, expressing her sadness:
My family and I were deeply saddened to hear the news of the sudden and tragic death of former Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe. I have fond memories of meeting Mr. Abe and his wife during
their visit to the United Kingdom in 2016.
I regret that I was not aware Mr. Abe has been highly respected and loved by the people worldwide to such extent for what he has done for the world and his wonderful character ; most of the
Japanese mass media have been busy with finding fault with everything; too late creating special TV programs after he’s gone!
May he rest in peace.
The illustration is made by ©Hagatake Kiri
