Basdeo Panday, son of our soil
Dear Editor,
The Caribbean Community is deeply saddened at the passing of Basdeo Panday, former prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago, on January 1, 2024.
Basdeo Panday held a multifaceted career in service of his country, as politician, trade unionist and civil servant. He used his exceptional skill as a barrister to advocate passionately for workers’ rights. His belief in the value of education, and his ideologies and initiatives, have made a lasting impact on the twin-island republic.
As chairman of Caricom at the close of the last century he hosted a two-day summit of Caricom leaders with deliberations focussed on ‘Concluding the 20th century and commencing the 21st’, with outcomes aimed at preparing the community to face the first decade of the new century.
He was also active in media and culture, as an actor, multi-linguist, and proponent of religious pluralism.
The community extends heartfelt condolence to his family members and friends, and the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago. We join with all who mourn the passing of this son of our soil, who served with determination and passion, and made an enduring contribution to our progress and development.
May his soul rest in peace.
Caricom Secretariat
c/o kendol.morgan@caricom.org
