Community leader and Councillor of the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Serojnie ‘Gem’ Narine yesterday passed away suddenly.
Narine’s sudden passing shocked many and saw tributes and messages of condolences flowing in from persons both from the opposition and government.
A known community activist, many also remembered Narine as a people-person, one who was passionate about development, as well as being friendly and approachable.
The People’s Progressive Party in brief statement on their Facebook page said ‘Gem’ was a passionate and dedicated activist and also a community leader of the Speightland Community, while also expressing sympathy to her family.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill who also extended condolences to her family said, “It is with great sadness to learn of the passing of Gem Narine. One of our most faithful, dedicated and hardworking Comrades in Linden.”
He added that her passing is painful as she has touched the lives of thousands, “… But I know that her life was not in vain and her legacy will live on. I pray that God comforts all of her loved ones at this time.”
Regional Chairman Deron Adams, in a statement from the RDC, last remembered Narine as a very friendly, respectful and approachable person. He noted that her colleague Councillors shared the same opinion about her.
“Councilors, officers and staff alike remarked on her easygoing personality and willingness to work with everyone to discharge her responsibilities,” the statement added, while noting that they are mourning her death.
Vice Chairman Douglas Gittens, in the statement described Narine as a servant of the people.
Narine was elected to the 8th and 9th Councils of the RDC Region 10 and chaired the RDC’s Wel-fare, Women and Gender Affairs Committee. She also served as a member of the Education and Health Committees and was assigned direct responsibility for the Speightland, Lower Kara Kara, and Dallawalla communities.
Councillor Mark Goring last night told Stabroek News that he is still in shock after learning of Narine’s passing. He explained that when he spoke with her last Thurs-day, she requested that he inform the council that she was unable to attend the statutory meeting.
“Gem and I have been friends since before we joined different parties and she never let our political views distract our friendship. She was the type of person I could have called anytime and ask for a favour and she will get it done,” Goring said.
He pointed out that she was adamant about seeing development in Blueberry Hill, Linden and up to the time of her death she was working aggressively to get a few developmental projects off the ground for the community.
“Honestly speaking my grandparents died and I didn’t shed a single tear but since around 3 today when I got the news, I am crying like a baby. I was driving home to Linden but I had to stop for a two hours and compose myself. This is heart breaking to hear we lost such a beautiful soul,” Goring, who represents the opposition on the council lamented.
Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira in a Facebook post said “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of councillor Gem Narine. A woman, who was such a beautiful soul.”
