The Tribune

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Fred Mitchell, who had a war of words with Dr Munroe earlier this year over gay rights, said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.

“This is simply a stunning development,” he said in a statement. “It has left the country reeling. One looks around and sees so much evil surviving in the world and in these circumstances you want to ask the question, why does evil survive when so much more can be done by good people? Dr Munroe was one of the good people.

“Reverend Munroe was a giant of a Bahamian. He rose up from modest circumstances to the highest heights and with his grit, determination and God’s favour he helped to put the Bahamas on the world stage. That he should be taken from us at the height of his influence is a mystery. It is sad beyond measure.

“I am deeply saddened by his passing. His sister is a part of our staff at the ministry. . .his father is my constituent. So you see that the things that unite us in this country are more than the things that divide us.”

• The Grand Bahama Shipyard, the site of the gruesome crash, also released a statement yesterday. The company said it is helping police in its recovery efforts.

“The Grand Bahama Shipyard shares in the mourning of the loss of so many lives.

“The management and staff of the shipyard are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and our thoughts and prayers go out to the families affected by this incident.”

• Many celebrities also took to social media to grieve over Dr Munroe. Among them was American actor, writer and filmmaker Tyler Perry.

“No words, just heartbreak,” Mr Perry posted on Facebook. “My prayers and thoughts for Dr Myles Munroe and all aboard that tragic plane crash.”