Guyanese Women in Development (Guywid) said late former president Mrs Janet Jagan “laid the foundation and provided the vision for the women’s rights movement in Guyana” as it mourns her passing.

In a press release the group said it remembers too Mrs Jagan’s “distinguished and selfless contribution towards the betterment of our country, our people and especially our women.” Together with her husband, the late president Dr Cheddi Jagan, she withstood many adversaries, challenged the colonial regime and blazed the trail in the struggle for political independence and working class unity.

The release said too as a leader and a journalist Mrs Jagan unwaveringly joined with others in the battle against rigged elections and for the restoration of democracy in Guyana. Since her entry into politics the late former president had been an advocate for and encouraged women to educate themselves and their children, particularly their daughters. She led the way both through her spoken works and by her actions, and became a symbol of what women could achieve of they are committed and hardworking, the release said.

Guywid said Guyanese women have been and will continue to be inspired by Mrs Jagan’s unflinching dedication, integrity and sense of purpose for she has left an indelible imprint on their lives. It said too it considers the most fitting tribute to her to be a commitment to strengthening democracy; to ensuring the poor and vulnerable benefit from labour and to empowering women to take on the helm of decision making in the society.

Guywid extends deepest sympathies to Mrs Jagan’s children and relatives.