The government and opposition have extended condolences to Queen Elizabeth on the passing of Prince Phillip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
“It is with deep sorrow that I extend heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, and in my own name, to the Government and people of the United Kingdom on the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” President Irfaan Ali wrote in a letter to the Queen.
Ali noted that Prince Philip served with great honour as the patriarch of the Royal Family and “an extraordinary public servant, providing stalwart support through decades of unprecedented change.”
He further noted that Prince Philip’s military service, particularly in the Second World War, has earned him great respect the world over. “His Royal Highness early outspoken advocacy for conservation and protection of the environment inspired many and the absence of his voice on these critical issues will be deeply felt,” Ali added, before expressing hope that the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom would be comforted by the outpouring of love and support extended to them at this time.
Meanwhile, in a statement on Friday morning Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon offered his deepest sympathies to the Queen and the entire Royal Family on behalf of the APNU+AFC coalition.
Harmon noted that Prince Phillip dedicated his life to his country – from a distinguished career in the Royal Navy during the Second World War to his decades of service as the Duke of Edinburgh.
He also pointed out that over seventy years of marriage he supported the Queen in fulfilling her duties as Head of the Commonwealth and shared with her the view of what humanity can attain through collaboration.
“Prince Phillip will be remembered for his early efforts to help modernize the Royal family’s image during a time of great change for Britain. He will also be remembered for his concern and love for young people with the creation of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and his support for more than 800 charities and good causes – focusing on his interests in wildlife conservation, technology and sport,” the statement added.
