Charlie Hebdo funerals: Slain journalists laid to rest in Paris

FP Staff • January 16, 2015, 11:06:10 IST

Funerals have been held for four people killed in last week’s attack in Paris on satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo by militant Islamists.

Pallbearers carry the coffin of late satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo cartoonist Bernard Verlhac, known as Tignous, after a tribute at the Montreuil town hall, near Paris. Ceremonies continue to honour the memories of the 17 people who were killed in last week’s attacks. Reuters

Friends and family paid last respects to cartoonists Bernard Verlhac, known as Tignous, and Georges Wolinski, as well as a columnist and a policeman. Pope Francis condemned the attacks but said there were limits to freedom of expression and people’s faith should not be insulted. Reuters

A private funeral service was held for Tignous, 57, in the suburb of Montreuil, ahead of his burial in Pere Lachaise, Paris’ best known resting place for writers, artists and composers. Reuters

Crowds in Montreuil applauded Tignous’ coffin as it arrived for the ceremony at Montreuil town hall covered in drawings and messages from well-wishers. In a tribute at the ceremony, Tignous’ colleague Corinne Rey described him as the “king of jokes”. Reuters

Also speaking at Montreuil, Justice Minister Christine Taubira said the dead cartoonists were the “guardian angels, those who watch out to make sure democracy was working” and the “face of France, obnoxiously assassinated.” “You were dreaming of being free, we will continue your dream.” Reuters