JourneyOnline
Uniting Church Queensland Moderator Rev Dr David Pitman says execution is morally indefensible.
"The execution this morning of Van Tuong Nguyen was a cruel and extreme punishment that should be the cause of deep concern to all Australians," Dr Pitman said.
"Notwithstanding that Van Nguyen was guilty of a criminal offence; his execution represents a barbaric and totally unwarranted action.
"Capital punishment, still practised in too many countries around the world, has proven to be quite ineffective as a strategy for influencing social behaviour."
Dr Pitman said that execution, by whatever means, is an act of violence.
"Societies that practice it are therefore condoning violence as a solution to the problems that confront them.
"This is an appalling message to convey to our children and young people.
"Our hearts should go out to this young man who deserved to be given an opportunity to amend his life and make a positive contribution to the community that has nurtured him.
"Our deepest sympathy is extended to his family and friends who must live with their grief and try to come to terms with the senseless act that has taken Van Nguyen from them."
Photo : Uniting Church Queensland Moderator Rev Dr David Pitman
