Guyana is mourning the death of Sir Shridath Ramphal, whom President Mohamed Irfaan Ali has hailed as an “outstanding statesman, a regionalist par excellence, and a committed internationalist.”
In a statement released late Friday evening, President Ali reflected on the profound impact of Sir Shridath’s passing: “The passing of Sir Shridath Ramphal marks the end of an era, not only for Guyana but for the entire Caribbean and the Commonwealth of Nations. We mourn the loss of an outstanding statesman, a regionalist par excellence, and a committed internationalist. Sir Shridath’s life was one of magnificent service—dedicated to his homeland, the region, and the world.”
President Ali emphasized the nation’s deep appreciation for Sir Shridath’s unwavering dedication to defending Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. His notable efforts before the International Court of Justice and the Tribunal of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) were highlighted as remarkable acts of patriotism. President Ali further noted that these efforts were “acts of supreme and selfless devotion to the land that nurtured him,” acknowledging Sir Shridath as a deserving recipient of Guyana’s highest national award, the Order of Excellence.
The President also praised Sir Shridath’s tenure as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, where he was a vocal opponent of apartheid. “As Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, he stood tall against the injustices of apartheid, becoming a voice for the oppressed and a champion for justice and equality. His firm opposition to apartheid rule will be remembered as one of the defining aspects of his illustrious international career. His contributions went beyond the Commonwealth, shaping international relations with his wisdom and leadership,” President Ali remarked.
He went on to explain how the Caribbean region, which Sir Shridath held close to his heart, greatly benefited from his commitment to regional unity. “His efforts helped the Caribbean secure its rightful place in global negotiations, protecting and advancing the interests of our member states. His role as Chairman of the West Indian Commission helped to provide direction, impetus, and revitalization to the regional integration process in the post-Cold War era.”
President Ali described Sir Shridath as more than a statesman, calling him a “gem of Guyana, a towering figure in the Caribbean, and a respected leader in the Commonwealth.” He expressed that while the loss is deeply felt, Sir Shridath’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. “Guyana has lost one of its finest sons, and the Caribbean and the Commonwealth, a giant among men,” he added.
In his closing remarks, President Ali offered his deepest condolences to Sir Shridath’s family, friends, and admirers, acknowledging the profound influence of his life and work. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of grief. We stand with them, celebrating the life of a true legend—Sir Shridath Ramphal,” he said.