Former President of Guyana, Donald Ramotar, Dies at 71
In a somber announcement today, Guyana mourns the loss of former President Donald Ramotar, who passed away at the age of 71. Ramotar, who served as the 8th president of the Republic of Guyana from 2011 to 2015, was a central figure in the country’s political landscape for decades. His death marks the end of an era for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), a political organization he led through times of both triumph and adversity.
The circumstances surrounding his death have not yet been fully disclosed, but sources close to the family confirmed the news earlier today. Flags across the nation have been lowered in honor of his legacy, and tributes have begun pouring in from political figures, fellow leaders, and citizens who remember him for his contributions to Guyana’s development and governance.
Ramotar was born on October 6, 1953, in the village of Gajraj, Berbice, in the country’s northeast region. From a young age, he became actively involved in politics, aligning himself with the PPP, a party founded in the 1950s that is known for its roots in socialism and its focus on social equality. Ramotar’s deep commitment to the party and its ideals shaped his political career.
His rise through the ranks of the PPP was both steady and significant. He was first elected to the National Assembly in 1992, a crucial time in Guyana’s post-colonial political history when the country was transitioning from a long period of authoritarian rule to a more democratic government. Over the years, he held various key positions, including Minister of Finance and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party. These roles placed him in the heart of Guyana’s economic and political transformation.
Ramotar ascended to the presidency in 2011, succeeding Bharrat Jagdeo, a former leader of the PPP. His presidency was marked by efforts to modernize Guyana’s infrastructure, improve its education and healthcare systems, and attract foreign investment to the country. However, Ramotar’s tenure was also fraught with political challenges. The PPP, under his leadership, faced increasing opposition from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC), which eventually led to the first electoral defeat of the PPP in 2015, marking the end of his presidency.
The 2015 general election was a pivotal moment in Guyanese history, as the opposition coalition triumphed in what many perceived as a highly contested and highly scrutinized election process. Despite the loss, Ramotar remained a staunch advocate for democracy, respecting the will of the electorate while continuing to defend the values he believed in.
In the years following his presidency, Ramotar remained an influential figure in Guyanese politics, offering advice to younger generations of politicians and advocating for policies to advance Guyana’s economy, particularly in the wake of its burgeoning oil industry. His insights were sought by both local and international leaders, who recognized his years of experience and commitment to the nation’s progress.
Throughout his political career, Ramotar emphasized the importance of unity among the diverse ethnic and cultural communities in Guyana. His presidency sought to balance the interests of both the Afro-Guyanese and Indo-Guyanese communities, often calling for collaboration to overcome the country’s historical divisions. His legacy includes an ongoing debate about the future direction of the country and how best to foster inclusive growth for all Guyanese people.
On the international stage, Ramotar also played an active role in promoting Caribbean unity and regional integration. He was a key supporter of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and worked tirelessly to ensure Guyana’s role as a member of the international community was strengthened. His diplomatic efforts in the region were recognized, with many leaders describing him as a steadfast and reliable ally.
As news of his passing spreads, leaders from across the globe have expressed their condolences, with both current President Irfaan Ali and former colleagues of the People’s Progressive Party offering their tributes. “Donald Ramotar was a leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of his people,” President Ali said in a heartfelt statement. “He was a mentor, a colleague, and above all, a patriot. His contributions to Guyana and the Caribbean will not be forgotten.”
Funeral arrangements for Donald Ramotar have not yet been announced, but it is expected that the government will declare a period of national mourning. In the coming days, there will likely be a public memorial service for the former president, where Guyanese citizens will have the opportunity to honor his life and legacy.
As Guyana grieves the loss of a former leader, many will reflect on Ramotar’s years of service to his country, his commitment to public service, and his role in shaping the nation’s political history. His death marks the end of an era for the PPP, but his impact on Guyana’s political, economic, and social landscape will be rememb
ered for years to come.
