Former United States President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100, is being remembered globally for his tireless advocacy for democracy, human rights, and development. In Guyana, his legacy holds a special significance as he played a transformative role in the country’s return to free and fair elections, ending decades of electoral manipulation and political dictatorship.
President Carter’s passing, announced by the Carter Center, marks the end of a remarkable era of service and humanitarianism. He died peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family. Tributes poured in from leaders worldwide, with Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, offering heartfelt condolences and commemorating Carter’s contributions to the nation’s democratic journey.
A Visionary Leader and Guyana’s Democratic Ally
In a statement released Sunday night, President Ali described Carter as “a respected statesman, a benevolent humanitarian, and an indefatigable champion of democracy.” Ali highlighted Carter’s instrumental role in reshaping Guyana’s electoral process, which ended nearly 25 years of political dictatorship.
“Jimmy Carter’s name will forever be linked to the electoral reforms that paved the way for free and fair elections in Guyana, breaking the shackles of nearly a quarter-century of political dictatorship,” Ali stated.
President Carter’s involvement with Guyana began in 1991 when he first visited the country alongside his wife, Rosalynn. His mission set the stage for the nation’s return to free and fair elections in October 1992—the first since Guyana’s colonial era in 1964. The elections marked a turning point, ushering in a new era of democratic governance under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
President Ali emphasized that Carter’s vision for Guyana extended beyond elections. He played a pivotal role in supporting the creation of a National Development Strategy (NDS) to guide the country’s economic and social reconstruction.
“President Carter also understood that democracy’s return had to be fortified by development. As such, after freedom had been restored in October 1992, he helped to support the crafting of a National Development Strategy for Guyana and to mobilize resources for reconstruction,” Ali noted.
Guarding Democracy Through the Carter Center
The Carter Center, founded by President Carter in 1982, has been at the forefront of global efforts to promote peace, democracy, and human rights. In Guyana, the Center acted as a watchdog of electoral transparency and fairness, ensuring credibility during and after elections.
During the contentious 2020 elections in Guyana, Mr. Jimmy Carter, renowned for his role in safeguarding the integrity of past elections, was unable to attend due to illness. In his absence, the PNC/AFC coalition orchestrated an extensive and deliberate attempt to manipulate the electoral process, subjecting the nation to a five-month ordeal of rigging and political uncertainty. The crisis drew international condemnation, culminating in the Trump administration’s firm ultimatum to then-President David A. Granger: withdraw from the presidential residence within 48 hours or face severe consequences. Under immense pressure, Mr. Granger relinquished his claim and fled to his own home, leaving the political arena in disarray.
“Guyana will forever remember and be grateful to President Carter for the election observer missions the Carter Center undertook in Guyana. These missions acted as a watchdog of transparency, fairness, and credibility in the electoral process,” President Ali remarked.
An Indelible Legacy of Service and Humanity
In his tribute, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo described Carter as “a statesman and a champion of human rights and social justice.” Jagdeo praised Carter’s relentless efforts to promote democracy, peace, and healthcare in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
“President Carter was a statesman and a champion of human rights and social justice. His tireless efforts through the Carter Center to promote peace, democracy, and healthcare in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions have left an indelible mark on humanity,” Jagdeo said.
Reflecting on Carter’s impact on Guyana, Jagdeo noted his pivotal role in the country’s democratic evolution:
“In Guyana, we will always remember President Carter for his pivotal role in advocating for free and fair elections, which greatly contributed to strengthening our democratic institutions.”
Global Tributes and Personal Loss
As the 39th President of the United States (1977-1981), Carter faced numerous challenges, particularly in foreign policy. Despite these hurdles, he transitioned to a post-presidency career focused on humanitarianism, winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work in promoting democracy and alleviating global suffering.
Carter is survived by his four children—Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy—11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. His wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Smith Carter, predeceased him on November 19, 2023.
His son, Chip Carter, expressed the family’s pride in Carter’s legacy: “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.”
A Lasting Inspiration
Jimmy Carter’s legacy in Guyana is one of enduring gratitude and respect. His commitment to democracy, development, and human rights remains an inspiration for generations.
“Jimmy Carter’s place in history is secure, and his standing in the history of our own country, Guyana, is etched in gratitude and respect,” President Ali affirmed.
As Guyana and the world bid farewell to this towering figure, his work continues to inspire efforts toward building societies founded on fairness, justice, and equality.
A Tribute to a Champion of Democracy
Guyana owes a debt of gratitude to the President Jimmy Carter, who personally ensured the integrity of its elections and stood as a steadfast advocate for democracy. His presence symbolized fairness, and his absence in 2020 due to ill health marked a stark turning point when the PNC sought to undermine our democratic process.
The Carter Center continued its work in Guyana, notably playing a pivotal role during the 2020 elections. The organization’s efforts were instrumental in preventing attempts to subvert the electoral process and ensuring that the will of the Guyanese people was upheld.
Global leaders poured in tributes, honoring Carter’s remarkable contributions. As the 39th President of the United States (1977-1981), Carter navigated significant foreign policy challenges and later dedicated his post-presidency years to humanitarian causes.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy of service and humanity will forever be cherished,” Vice President Jagdeo concluded.
Carter’s work in Guyana and beyond remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice. He has left an enduring legacy that will inspire generations to come.