THE first night of wake was held last night for former minister, prominent member of the Peoples Progressive Party / Civic (PPP/C) member and Member of Parliament, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud at his home at Shantinikatan Street, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown.

A satsang (religious ceremony) was held to commemorate the death of Pandit Persaud as it was his favourite thing while he was alive, the Kirtan group was that of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and various Hindu religious songs were sang.
His daughter Dr Vindhiya Persaud (MP) speaking to the media explained that her father had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease, a mobility disorder which limited his movements.
She noted that he has had this illness for quite a number of years but otherwise for a man his age had very sharp intellectual and social skills and an excellent memory.
Recently, he developed a respiratory infection and he was treated at the hospital upon which he returned home and as a doctor she was able to continue his treatment, she said.
She noted however, that nothing could have prepared the family for her father’s demise. It was sudden as he became agitated and he was again taken to the hospital where it was discovered that the respiratory track infection was still present to an extent.
As his conditioned worsened he was put on life support but the situation got worse and his condition went downhill and he succumbed shortly after, she said.
The family has been taken by surprise Dr Persaud said, but persons from Guyana as well as abroad have been showing support and giving their sympathies which is deeply appreciated.
“My dad will be irreplaceable” she said, his legacy will be carried on by his children as he was an undefined figure who was humble and approachable, he was wonderful father and husband and will be remembered by many for his work and his kindness, she said.
She highlighted that a date for the funeral has not yet been set; however, members of the public will be informed as it also involves political considerations.