The Latin America and Caribbean Economic System (Sela) extends sympathy to Guyana on the passing of former president Janet Jagan.
According to a press release, Ambassador Jose Rivera Banuet, Permanent Secretary, Sela, expressed “deepest sorrow” on behalf of the regional organisation. He noted that Jagan, along with her husband late President Cheddi Jagan “were internationally recognised as fighters against colonialism and champions in the struggle for democracy in Latin America and the Caribbean.”
The release said Banuet’s remarks were made at a forum to discuss the effects of the economic policies of the new US administration on the region’s economies at Sela headquarters in Caracas, Venezuela. Envoys from Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Colombia as well as the Venezuelan representative also expressed sympathies on Jagan’ death.
In response, Guyana’s Ambassador to Venezuela Odeen Ishmael said he appreciated their recognition of the revolutionary role Jagan played in Guyana gaining independence and her active solidarity with Latin American during their own struggles for democracy.
Meanwhile, diplomats stationed in Caracas and members of the Venezuelan political establishment have been signing a book of condolence opened at the Embassy.