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| Kelvin with political colleagues in Couva South |
Perhaps the best example of this aspect of his political life was when at a convention in Chaguaramas in the late eighties, he received seven standing ovations during his address.
As a parliamentarian, he excelled and at times could intimidate his opponents.
He understood, however, that representation was not only about platform speeches and the cut and thrust of debate. He served his constituents well.
He understood, however, that representation was not only about platform speeches and the cut and thrust of debate. He served his constituents well.
As an organizer he paid attention to detail. His success as general secretary of the United Labour Front and the United National Congress was largely due to this, his ability to work with people, and perseverance.
And most of all, he had the zeal and passion to fight for the things he believed in, no matter what.
Outside of politics he had very significant achievements as a petroleum engineer and ended his career at Petrotrin as a respected senior manager.
Behind the politician and engineer, however, was a good and genuine human being who loved his family very much. He was always prepared to make any sacrifice for his children and was a loving and caring companion to his wife. This attitude of caring caused him to reach out to members of his extended family and to friends in need.
In his life, coming from very humble beginnings, he dined with prime ministers, presidents, intellectual giants and business tycoons but never lost the common touch. The poor neighbour was as dear to him as his many friends in high places.
He had great passion for cricket and for Indian local classical music and would often go out of his way to assist the local classical singers.
I have lost a friend and colleague. The country has lost an outstanding citizen. He will be missed. However, he has left behind a rich legacy.
I wish him all the best on the onward journey to where he will find peace and rest.
And most of all, he had the zeal and passion to fight for the things he believed in, no matter what.
Outside of politics he had very significant achievements as a petroleum engineer and ended his career at Petrotrin as a respected senior manager.
Behind the politician and engineer, however, was a good and genuine human being who loved his family very much. He was always prepared to make any sacrifice for his children and was a loving and caring companion to his wife. This attitude of caring caused him to reach out to members of his extended family and to friends in need.
In his life, coming from very humble beginnings, he dined with prime ministers, presidents, intellectual giants and business tycoons but never lost the common touch. The poor neighbour was as dear to him as his many friends in high places.
He had great passion for cricket and for Indian local classical music and would often go out of his way to assist the local classical singers.
I have lost a friend and colleague. The country has lost an outstanding citizen. He will be missed. However, he has left behind a rich legacy.
I wish him all the best on the onward journey to where he will find peace and rest.
(Dr Rampersad Parasram was a founding member of CLUB 88 - Caucus of Love, Unity and Brotherhood, which later became the United National Congress. He also served as the first chairman of the UNC.)
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