Former Jamaican Prime Minister PJ Patterson pays tribute to Basdeo Panday

Jamaica's former Prime Minister PJ Patterson has paid tribute to Trinidad and Tobago's former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday, who died on New Year's Day.

Panday, who was Trinidad’s fifth prime minister, served from 1995 to 2001. He died at a hospital in Florida at 90 years old.

He will be given the first state funeral under Hindu rites in Trinidad.

Patterson remembers Panday

In a statement, PJ Patterson, who was prime minister of Jamaica throughout Panday’s time in office, said he was a man of many facets – a lawyer, economist, trade unionist, and actor.

“He was my colleague as a prime minister from 1995 to 2001 and during those years we developed a friendship which has endured,” Patterson said.

“His passion to foster economic and social development in a country of racial diversity was matched by his commitment to advance the institutional capacity which would enable the creation of a single market and hence his leadership role in securing the seat of the Caribbean Court of Justice for Trinidad and Tobago.

“I will remember his sincerity of purpose, his agility in moving from the attack to one of jovial indulgence during our deliberations.”

Patterson noted that, regardless of political affiliation, it had to be acknowledged that the twin-island republic has lost one of its most colorful political stalwarts. He said Panday was “a man of great warmth, tenacity, and wit” and that his influence extended far beyond the corridors of power.

“As Trinidad and Tobago bids farewell to Basdeo Panday, his legacy will remain forever etched in the annals of the nation’s history. His determination and his unwavering dedication to the betterment of his country will continue to inspire future generations,” said Patterson.

“As we bid farewell to this devoted leader, we join his family and the nation in remembering his extraordinary life and struggles. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. I extend sincere condolence to his wife Oma, the daughters, and all members of his family and colleagues.”

Prime Minister Holness also pays tribute

Ahead of Patterson’s tribute, current Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness extended condolences to Panday’s family, loved ones, and the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

“Former Prime Minister Panday leaves behind a vast legacy that will be treasured and honored,” Holness said in a post on social media. “I pray his family finds strength during this difficult time.”