New Zealand to broadcast Azaan on Friday in solidarity with Muslims

CHRISTCHURCH, SRINAGAR, (PTK): New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday said the nation will observe a two-minute silence in memory of the Christchurch martyrs and the Azaan (the call to prayer) will be broadcast nationally on Friday in solidarity with the Muslim community.

Speaking to media on her second visit to Christchurch, Ardern said, “There is a desire to show support to the Muslim community as they return to mosques, particularly on Friday.”

“To acknowledge this there will be a two minutes’ silence on the same day. We will also broadcast nationally, via TVNZ and RNZ, the Azaan,” she added.

Ardern said that the government is planning a memorial service for the Christchurch martyrs, adding that it wants to involve the rest of New Zealand too.