Dear Editor,
The week of December 15, 2024, would mark one of the saddest weeks for the PNCR. The party lost four of its most loyal and faithful comrades. I woke up last Monday to the sad news that Ms. Ann Green was no longer with us, and before I could write a line to reflect and pay tribute to Ms. Green, I learned that Ms. Shirley Klass had joined Ms. Green. Suddenly, it appeared that Ms. Joan Baveghems decided to protest those ladies’ ascension, so she decided to join them. Well, Mr. Lennox Merchant probably thought the ladies needed transportation. Hence, he decided he would provide transportation and drive them to the ultimate destination, so he joined in, and just like that, the four of them left us! They left their families, left the PNCR, and they departed this world in one week!
When I joined the PNCR, I met all these stalwarts I came to know personally. These folks represent true comradeship, commitment, dedication, and loyalty. They all contributed to the PNCR in many different ways. I’ve interacted with these stalwarts, and they all have impacted my life in many ways. Our interactions were valuable and insightful. So, allow me to reflect on these comrades. I consider Ms. Green an aesthetician, though she had a professional career. She was known, among other things, for her attention to beautiful creative displays. Her decorative talent was always on display at special party events.
Ms. Joan Baveghems was a savvy and down-to-earth politician; her ascension to the parliament was one of her political hallmarks. She was one of those fierce and fearless advocates of her party. Ms. Baveghems was funny and serious at the same time. We came to know each other well during our daily protest activities, which she rarely missed. A little lady with a big heart and deep conviction, Ms. Baveghems was among the first to approach police officers to remind them of our right to peaceful protest. She led on many levels and inspired us to be relentless in our struggle. Despite being teargassed and shot with pellets, she persevered in her fight for justice and equality. Joan Baveghems was one of those leaders who led from the ground. She didn’t need a title, a party office, or any identifiable position to represent and work in the interest of the party and people. It was never about seeking office for her. It was serving! The last time I saw Ms. Baveghems was the last local government elections. She was going up the stairs of her polling station to cast her ballot while MP Ferguson and I were going down the stairs. Her life’s work is an example and testament to authentic leadership. I’ve learned a lot from her; she has served the PNCR and has done so well.
Ms. Shirley Klass is remembered as a quiet, attentive, supportive comrade. I can almost see her now in the GS’ (the late Oscar Clarke) office, where she usually spent most of her time at Congress Place. I looked forward to her views and criticism whenever I engaged her.
Mr. Merchant, fondly called Muslim, was a dependable soldier who was never shy about expressing his opinion. I also called him “soldier.” I came to know Mr. Merchant during our early days of street protests. He was one of the comrades always willing to transport us from point A to B, and he did it with enthusiasm and pride. There were times when the only transportation available at CP was Merchant’s, and though his service was free and voluntary, he acted like it was a paid job, always waiting to see who needed it. Mr. Merchant was usually present at every party general council meeting, Congress, and other events I attended; he represented his views passionately and with confidence. We relish the culture of unhindered speech and value the exchange of ideas.
The PNCR is better because of comrades like Ann Green, Shirley Klass, Joan Baveghems, and Lennox Merchant. These are comrades who served in and out of season.
Sincere condolences to the respective families of the departed comrades and condolences to the PNCR. As they say, “The party got to knock wood!” May the souls of the departed rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Lurlene Nestor
