Former MP Asot Anthony Emmanuel Michael was laid to rest today at the St. John’s Public Cemetery, following a funeral filled with heartfelt tributes that reflected his vibrant personality, unwavering commitment to public service, and the indelible mark he left on Antigua and Barbuda.
Political colleagues, family members, and friends remembered Michael as a larger-than-life figure who blended charisma with compassion and a relentless drive to uplift those around him.
Dr. Errol Cort, a former MP and longtime friend, described Michael as a beacon of hope whose dedication to his constituents and country was unmatched.
“Asot’s life was one of service, generosity, and love,” Dr. Cort said. “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.”
Cort recounted Michael’s achievements, from his early role as Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister to his tenure as Minister of Tourism, Economic Development, Investments, and Energy. Under his leadership, Antigua and Barbuda saw record-breaking growth in tourism, earning him the title of “Best Tourism Minister in the Caribbean” in 2016.
Marissa Michael, Asot’s niece, gave an emotional tribute that highlighted the personal side of a man many knew as a public figure.
“To me, Uncle Asot was not just my uncle and godfather—he was like a second father,” Marissa said. She shared fond memories of campaigning for him as a child and learning valuable lessons about service and humility.
“Uncle Asot’s influence shaped who I am today. He taught me to dream big, to give generously, and to serve with purpose,” she said.
Former MP Lennox Weston delivered a vivid reflection on Michael’s dynamic personality and unconventional approach to politics.
“Asot was not just a politician—he was a master campaigner, a risk-taker, and a man who lived every moment to the fullest,” Weston said.
He recounted Michael’s groundbreaking election strategies, his generosity during Christmas giveaways, and his unmatched ability to connect with people. “Asot’s political style was rooted in personal connections. He understood the value of making people feel seen and supported,” Weston shared.
Weston also spoke of Michael’s love for culture, particularly Carnival. “Whether it was on the truck with Burning Flames or at a calypso breakfast, Asot was in his element,” he said.
While acknowledging Michael’s imperfections, those who paid tribute focused on his humanity. Weston quoted scripture, saying, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone,” and noted Michael’s ability to make amends and earn the goodwill of even his harshest critics.
“Asot’s heart was always in the right place,” Weston said. “He gave freely, knowing that wealth is best used to uplift others.”
Asot Michael’s funeral was a celebration of a man who lived boldly and gave generously. His contributions extended beyond Antigua and Barbuda, as he built relationships with leaders across the Caribbean and left a regional impact.
“Asot has left his mark,” Weston said in his closing remarks. “We mourn his loss, but we celebrate the incredible life he lived.”
As the congregation gathered at the St. John’s Public Cemetery, Michael was laid to rest amidst an atmosphere of solemnity and gratitude. His family, friends, and colleagues bid farewell to a man who was a force of nature, a servant of the people, and a pillar of his community.
Michael’s legacy, as captured in the tributes, is one of service, connection, and an unyielding belief in the power of generosity to change lives. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his impact will resonate for generations to come.
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Asot Rest In Peace
Im betting his saying that his ppl betrayed him
Really never heard such nonesense before. I know though that perhaps Asot’s greatest regret if there is such a thing, is that the party he held so dearly and helped throughout his life time, tossed him out in his latter years. Like other Comrades, he didn’t even get the privilege and dignity of lying in State at the Party’s Headquarters. Asot was one of the largest donor and fundraiser for the ABLP in his formative years. I think that was regrettable. I thought that Asot’s family showed much dignity and maturity to members of a party that ridiculed and maligned him over the past 3 years or so.