Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley issued a heartfelt statement on the passing of Sir Henry Forde, a distinguished former Attorney General, Minister of External Affairs, and longtime member of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP).
Sir Henry, who passed away at the age of 91, leaves behind a legacy of unwavering dedication to his country and party.
In her statement, Prime Minister Mottley described Sir Henry as not only a personal mentor and advisor but also as a political father figure. Reflecting on her early days in law and politics, she recalled how he introduced her to Middle Temple in London and later welcomed her to the Barbados Bar in 1987.
She credits Sir Henry with helping to shape a generation of leaders, including herself and other prominent figures like Liz Thompson, Glenn Clark, and Ronald Toppin.
Mottley spoke of his integrity, noting that he always placed his country before party.
“His record of service and legacy paint a picture of a man whose commitment to the Barbados Labour Party can never be questioned, yet he could never be accused of putting party before country,” she said.
As Attorney General and Minister of External Affairs from 1976 to 1981, Sir Henry left an indelible mark on Barbados’ post-independence legislative framework, achievements that Mottley referred to as “enviable.”
She also remembered him as a gracious and steadfast leader who exemplified maturity and dedication, even during times of political turbulence. He was instrumental in guiding the BLP through challenging periods, including the 1989 formation of the National Democratic Party and the subsequent floor-crossing that shifted the political landscape.
Despite these challenges, Mottley praised his gentlemanly approach, noting that he always maintained his commitment and ideals.
Prime Minister Mottley expressed her gratitude to Sir Henry’s family, stating, “To the entire Ford family, we, the people of Barbados, owe a huge debt of gratitude for lending him tin service to our country for more than half a century. May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory.”
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