Dear Editor,
The Indian Action Committee (IAC) is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Mr Isahak Basir CCH (1935-2019), a stalwart of the People’s Progressive Party, former Member of Parliament, and an IAC awardee, who died suddenly at the Suddie Hospital, Essequibo Coast.
The IAC, which has been fortunate to work with Mr Basir since 2003 especially at the IAC Melas held at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground and at commemorations of the Devonshire Castle Martyrs, mourns the departure of this intellectual giant who was recognized as a knowledgeable local historian, and founder of the Lima Sands Memorial Park which honours the memory of the late President Dr Cheddi Jagan and the late President Janet Jagan.
The IAC believes that, in the near future, a memorial statue in Essequibo should be raised in honour of Mr Basir, who was born in the Pomeroon, and the organization will campaign strongly for this to be realized.
The IAC also recognizes that the late Mr Basir was a patriot who was shot five times by a policeman in 1976 while he opposed the PNC dictatorship, and that he raised his voice continuously for decades on behalf of the people of the Essequibo Coast even up to a few hours before his death; and therefore, the IAC believes that a statue of this great man must be raised so that future generations can learn of his steadfast endeavours on behalf of the people of his region.
The IAC wishes to express its deepest condolences to the family and relatives of Mr Isahak Basir, who was a staunch Muslim but one who respected other religious beliefs. May his soul rest in peace.
Yours faithfully,
Saira Alli
Secretary/Coordinator
Indian Action Committee
