I extend deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mrs. Janet Jagan. I grew up in a political family, so as a child, I was a frequent visitor to Freedom House, usually in Dr Jagan’s car.

Mrs. Jagan always seemed to be smiling, notwithstanding her many political struggles. I pay tribute in poetry to this dedicated politician.

Farewell
From afar you come
To this distant land of many waters
And endless beauty

Selfless, the journey
For a cause that was but
A speck on the distant horizon
Many a battle and mouths flowing
with distain

But fortitude stood tall,
Strong as the steel gates that
Clanged shut behind you

Many a moon sank into brown waters
But humility shone bright to eclipse
The advancing dark

Never broken, your will,
Perpetual the smile of
An unbroken spirit

Ah, the final sigh
Of a life overflowing,
And bold, and relentless
Yet void of material gain…
YURI WESTMAAS