Hasmat Khan [right]

Only the memories of Haji Hafiz Musa Patel is left for his close friends in Lautoka who coming to terms with the act of terrorism in Christchurch.

Hasmat Khan a close friend of Haji Patel says he had known late Patel ever since he moved to Fiji from India.

Haji Hafiz Musa Patel residence in Lautoka

Khan says they are still in shock over the senseless shooting during the Friday Jummah which killed fifty Muslims.

He says they will miss Haji as his character was exemplary.

“He was a great leader and we are really going to miss him and we are still in shock that his demise was very harsh but we continue to pray at Allah because he was so nice and kind to everybody.”

Haji Hafiz Musa Patel

Recalling the last conversation with late Patel, Hasmat Khan told FBC News that Hafiz Sahib left for Australia three weeks ago to spend time with his family and behaved like he will not be returning.

He was in Christchurch with his wife at the invitation of friends and well-wishers.

“He asked for forgiveness from everybody like he knew he was not going to come back. The way he was speaking to everybody to forgive him and if he owes money or said unwanted words he wanted to be forgiven, he asked for forgiveness before he left.”

Late Patel was a highly respected member of the Fiji Muslim league and served selflessly as an Imam, teacher, mentor, and was much sought after as a powerful orator and speaker.

He is survived by his wife and 5 children.