By Denis Benn
Michael Manley Professor of Public Affairs/
Public Policy, University of the West Indies, Mona Campus
In the Caribbean firmament, no star shines more brightly than Shridath Ramphal’s. I have had the privilege of knowing Sir Shridath (Sonny) for more than 30 years, both in a professional and personal capacity, which has allowed me to gauge the measure of the man. As a Foreign Service Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana during the 1970s, I grew to appreciate and admire his diplomatic skills and his ability to command attention both at the regional and international level. Sonny is a unique Caribbean phenomenon. Brilliant lawyer, reluctant politician, consummate statesman, he is truly one of the great orators of our time. Sonny is also an elegant writer whose style reveals an unmistakeable erudition. His vision and leadership in the Caribbean and on the global stage are legendary. He has been associated with some of the most important initiatives adopted in the region and beyond during the past 50 years, including the federal enterprise, Caribbean economic integration, the ending of the diplomatic isolation of Cuba, the negotiation of the first Lomé Convention as well as more recent external trade negotiations, the development of university education (he was the Chancellor of both the University of Guyana and the University of the West Indies) – not to mention his contribution to the struggle against apartheid in South Africa in his capacity as Secretary General of the Commonwealth. In fact, by standing up to then British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher on the issue, he demonstrated the depth of his commitment to democracy and freedom and his political courage. Indeed, Sonny has never been afraid to speak out on issues of importance to the people of the region and the wider international community.
In recognition of his immense contribution, he has received numerous honours – a knighthood, the Order of the Caribbean Community and the prestigious Indira Gandhi Prize, to name but a few. More importantly, beyond his public persona, Sonny is at heart a good and decent man – friendly, considerate, respectful and devoid of pretence and a false sense of self importance. He is committed to family and, over the years, his public contribution has been sustained by the quiet support of his wife, Lois and his children. Sonny is a unique product of our region and is indeed the Caribbean’s gift to the world.
Like Horace, he can truly say that he has erected monuments (of achievement) “more lasting than bronze.” I wish therefore to salute him and to recognise his genius and achievements on this important milestone in a life full of distinguished accomplishment.