Vigil for Jordanian pilot interrupted by drunk locals

But the mourners didn’t let it affect their moving evening


What started as a poignant event in memory of the Jordanian pilot murdered by ISIS was interrupted by a rowdy group of drunks looking “for a light” last night.

The vigil for Moath al-Kasasbeh was held by Edinburgh Uni’s Arab Student Association at around 8pm in Bristo Square.

But the candlelit evening was disrupted at 8.30pm by a group of local drunks when one of the men asked to light his cigarette on one of the memorial candles.

Singing Ellie Goulding

As the group ignored the slurred request another of the men started free-style rapping and later singing “How Long Will I Love You” by Ellie Goulding.

Those mourning Moath were not put off by the distracting events and continued to silently pray and mourn for the murdered Jordanian. Jordanian and member of the association Ali El-Wir said: “We decided to mourn by lighting candles, and they decide to do that.

“Everybody mourns in their own way. At the end of the day, we’ve just been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from everyone. From students to bus-drivers.”

Those attending to show their respects were not just of Arab descent.

Denyse, a Scottish student, attended and told us why she thought it was important for her to be there: “Stories like this need far more attention. Yes, the Charlie Hebdo case was important. But that was about freedom of speech and was very focused on the Western World.

Denyse, a fourth year Biology student

“It’s important that we show solidarity and point out that there is a world beyond Europe.

Candles were lit by those attending and numerous posters were stuck up around the square. Ali El-Wir gave a moving speech to those attending.

Ali El-Wir, a member of the assocation

He told the crowd: “We are standing along with every resilient daughter and son of Jordan whom are fighting a just war for human dignity, and attempting to free Islam which has been taken hostage.”
Badia, a third year Law student, who is also a member of the association, said: “We’re here to celebrate the memory of Jordan’s martyr. He died to defend his people. We proudly mourn for him”.

Sisters Nadeen and Taleen taking a stand against terrorism

Signs reading “Terrorism Has No Religion” and “#IAmMoath” and a large Jordanian flag are proudly hanging outside McEwan hall for anybody who wishes to show their respects to go to.