Patterson hails Panday as ‘man of many facets’

Former Jamaica Prime Minister PJ Patterson has joined Caribbean neighbour Trinidad and Tobago in mourning the death of its former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday.

Panday, who was Trinidad’s fifth prime minister, serving from 1995 to 2001, died on New Year’s Day at age 90.

In a statement yesterday, 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 – who died surrounded by his loving family.

“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 colourful 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.”

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 honoured,” Holness said in a post on social media. “I pray his family finds strength during this difficult time.”