Georgetown, Guyana — President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has paid tribute to former Deputy Prime Minister and opposition leader Robert H.O. Corbin, saying his vision for national reconciliation, shared governance and a more united Guyana remains unfinished.
Speaking at Corbin’s funeral at St Andrew’s Kirk in Georgetown, President Ali reflected on the veteran politician’s decades of public service, parliamentary debates and efforts to encourage cooperation across political divisions.
President Ali Calls for National Unity
President Ali urged Guyanese to look beyond political differences and work together towards a future built on mutual respect, cooperation and a shared national purpose.
He said Corbin’s aspirations continued to challenge the country to consider how people from different backgrounds could contribute to national development.
The President also called for a broader national conversation about Guyana’s future, stressing that unity requires more than avoiding conflict. It also requires a commitment to working collectively towards common goals.
A Long Career in Guyana’s Parliament
Corbin served in Guyana’s National Assembly for nearly 35 years, building a reputation as an experienced parliamentarian known for his persistent arguments and detailed understanding of parliamentary procedure.
During his career, he held several ministerial positions and served as Deputy Prime Minister from 1985 to 1992. He later became leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Leader of the Opposition.
President Ali recalled their time on opposite sides of the National Assembly, describing Corbin as a determined debater who consistently pressed the government to address issues he considered important.
Despite their political differences, Ali said Corbin was capable of maintaining personal respect and friendly relations with political opponents outside Parliament.
Reconciliation and Shared Governance
A central part of Corbin’s political legacy was his advocacy for national reconciliation and cooperation among Guyanese of different racial, religious and cultural backgrounds.
President Ali acknowledged that Corbin’s political positions and strategies did not always achieve their intended results. However, he said the former opposition leader’s persistence and commitment to his convictions remained important aspects of his public service.
The President also highlighted Corbin’s belief that Guyanese should have a meaningful role in determining their country’s future.
A Call to Fulfil the Dream of 1950
President Ali said Guyana had reached a defining point in its history and encouraged citizens to work collectively towards a national vision rooted in unity and shared development.
He called on the country to continue pursuing the ideals of national harmony and cooperation that Corbin had championed throughout his political career.
The President extended condolences to Corbin’s wife, Carol, their children, relatives, friends, political colleagues and members of the PNCR.
Corbin’s life in public service, Ali said, should encourage continued efforts to build a more united Guyana.