Reactions on the death of Osama Bin Laden

By Mayele - 06.05.2011

Bordering on controversy, the phenomenon Bin Laden has, somehow, been apprehended and approached differently, for reasons relevant or irrelevant to people’s social, cultural and political sensibilities. The news about his death, naturally, was object of some robust exchange of views among people gathered in public places; in buses and trains, even on the streets. Below are some excerpts from people met randomly by The New Times crew in Copenhagen a few hours after the news was published.

Interview 1: Jeppe, a student from Nørrebro.

New Times: What do you think of the death of Osama Bin Laden?

Jeppe: I did not know he was dead. Well, I mean, I thought he was sick, as we were not hearing about him, hidden from the public. But I do not think it will matter much actually. He was a well known terrorist, and his death has a symbolic meaning for a lot of people. His death may mean hope for the people, for instance, in Afghanistan and the Middle East in general. Maybe now would be the time to move on. Maybe tomorrow we can have solutions for all the violence.

New Times: Do you see his death as a solution to terrorism?

Jeppe: I do not think his death will matter that much.

New Times: Why?

Jeppe: Here we got a man who played into a lot of people death, took part in a lot of violence and crimes against humanity. There are many people to follow him or under him, but his death will not have much effect. But I think it can give some kind of hope.

Interviewe 2: David, Mathematics student.

New Times: What do you think about the death of Osama Bin Laden?

David: I am not sure because I am not sure about the whole Afghanistan thing. Especially, in the Danish media.... I do not know if he was a terrorist, I am not sure how it is good or bad. We cannot be sure if he is dead. The Danish media is not a reliable source. I do not believe anything they say.

New Times: Why?

David: Because they say the Taliban have killed a lot of civilians. How can I believe what they say about Bin Laden, I am confused... if he has done terrorism.

Interview 3: (A lady with the Far Eastern look) Sheila, a student.

New Times: What do you think of the death of Osama Bin Laden?