Kenneth Joseph, the long-serving General Secretary of the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), died yesterday at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was being treated for a stroke he suffered three weeks ago.
He was 65 years old.
His wife, Elizabeth, told Stabroek News that while Joseph had been hospitalised since February 1st, she was optimistic that he would have overcome his illness.
She remembered the father of six as a man that was always a “people’s person” and one who was passionate about his job. “He loved people and was a people’s person…,” the grieving widow said.
Former President Donald Ramotar echoed the view of Joseph’s widow as he extended his sympathies to Joseph’s family and the union. “He was a champion among the working class. Kenneth rose through the ranks of the workers to become one of the leading trade unionists in Guyana, so he understood the struggle of the working class and always did his best to ensure they were well represented.
He was a person for the people and his death has come at a time when the sugar workers whom he represents [are] facing their most serious challenge in a long long time,” Ramotar said referring to the union’s fight with government over the ailing sugar industry.
“Joseph’s long experience with the sugar industry and his known fighting spirit is badly needed at his time. However, the best way workers can honour his memory is by intensifying the struggle to defend their rights and gains. I know he will be missed and I want to express great appreciation for his contribution throughout the years,” he added.
