Indonesia defends executions, after convicts die singing

Indonesia on Wednesday staunchly defended its execution of seven foreigners including two Australians as a vital front of its “war” on drugs as testimony emerged of how they went singing to their deaths. Australia withdrew its ambassador in protest at the midnight executions, but Indonesian President Joko Widodo said he was merely applying “the rule of law” against narcotics traffickers. The seven convicts - two from Australia, one from Brazil and four from Africa - were shot by firing squad, along with one Indonesian, despite strident foreign appeals and pleas from family members. The condemned men reportedly all refused blindfolds and sang hymns, among them “Amazing Grace”, as they went to face the firing squad in a jungle clearing, according to a pastor who was with them.

We are fighting a war against horrible drug crimes that threaten our nation’s survival. I would like to say that an execution is not a pleasant thing. It is not a fun job.

Indonesian Attorney General Muhammad Prasetyo

Prasetyo also played down Australia’s decision to recall its ambassador, describing it as a “temporary reaction”, while Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi stressed Jakarta’s desire to “continue having good relations” with one of its most important trading partners. Australia had mounted a sustained campaign to save its citizens, who have been on death row for almost a decade, and Prime Minister Tony Abbott said the executions were “both cruel and unnecessary”.

They asked for mercy, but there was none. They were immensely grateful for all the support they received. We too, will be forever grateful.

Statement from the families of the executed Bali 9 members

World bali 9