The People’s National Party (PNP) of Jamaica extends condolences to the people of Antigua and Barbuda on the passing of Prime Minister and National Hero, Sir Lester Bird

The People’s National Party (PNP) of Jamaica extends condolences to the people of Antigua and Barbuda on the passing of Prime Minister and National Hero, Sir Lester Bird

Kingston, Jamaica, August 9, 2021: The People’s National Party (PNP) of Jamaica extends our sincerest condolences to the people of Antigua and Barbuda on the passing of their second Prime Minister and National Hero, Sir Lester Bird. We extend our condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of Sir Bird as they mourn this significant loss.

Sir Lester Bird served as Antigua and Barbuda’s second Prime Minister from 1994 to 2004. He sadly passed away at age 83 but will be remembered as a National Hero with an unparalleled legacy of achievement. He worked tirelessly to modernize the Antiguan state, making it an attractive destination for tourism and loosening its dependence on colonial industries like sugar.

The impact he had on the lives of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizens was evidently profound, and extends into the region.

He will be remembered fondly for his advocacy for small island developing states (SIDs) at the United Nations, and internationally, for his commitment to regionalism in the fight for greater development.

PNP President Mark J. Golding shared his memory of Sir Lester Bird. “A towering statesman, Sir Lester was an iconic regional figure of the era in which he served.”

Sir Lester Bird, the People’s National Party salutes you and thanks you for your life’s work. May he Rest in Peace.