Letter of the Day | Shahine Robinson - The indomitable ‘Shiny’

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I AM so deeply saddened by the passing of Mrs Shahine Robinson. Shahine was a gentle and kind soul, but fierce when it came to protecting the rights of the poor. No one could mistake her politeness for weakness. Humility, however, was her strength and so, too, was her indomitable spirit. I also believe that her kindness was innate. She had a natural inclination to help a friend or constituent in need.

I have fond memories of her, including her campaign of 2001 when my husband toured her constituency with her and we stayed in St Ann for the duration of the campaign.

I will never forget that enthusiastic campaign. My husband remarked to me, at the time, how pleased he was to see that Shahine knew the names and difficulties of the residents at every corner of North East St Ann. This was in keeping with his own strong belief that a member of parliament should be a servant of the people and constituents are like family.

During the campaign, as Shahine travelled through what became her constituency, it was no wonder that her supporters referred to her as ‘Shiny’, a nickname that truly reflected her character. She was then, and continued to maintain, a shining light of hope there.

As a minister of welfare and social security, Shahine embraced justice, welfare and development. She worked hard to see better for all and for her beloved Jamaica, and was highly respected on both sides of the political fence.

Shahine leaves behind an important lesson, which is that a determined will does not always have to be loud, and that leadership can be effective with humility. Shahine was an outstanding leader who we all heard and admired.

May her beloved family, friends and constituency find comfort in believing that she is in a better place with the Heavenly Father.

Rest well, Shahine. You were greatly loved and you have done your nation proud.

CARLA SEAGA