Former Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform and former Leader of the Opposition, Robert Corbin, has died.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the PNCR and A Partnership for National Unity said they were saddened by the passing of the long-serving member, popularly known as “RHO”.
Corbin served as General Secretary and Leader of the PNCR, and as National Chairman of the party’s Young Socialist Movement.
The party said he served Guyana with distinction as a Parliamentary Secretary, Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, describing him as an astute, loyal, disciplined and hardworking member.
The PNCR credited Corbin with leading the party into coalition politics, which eventually resulted in the APNU+AFC Coalition and its victory at the 2015 elections. The party noted that he also became a lawyer, and continued to advise the party during his illness.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo also paid tribute to Corbin, saying he was deeply saddened by his passing.
Jagdeo said that during his presidency, he and Corbin engaged on numerous occasions on matters of national importance. He said that although they represented opposing political parties, their relationship was cordial and respectful.
“Even through difficult and turbulent periods in our country’s life, we maintained the ability to speak with one another, a respect that continued beyond our time in office,” Jagdeo said.
The PNCR described Corbin’s death as an irreplaceable loss, and extended condolences to his wife, Carol, his children, relatives, colleagues and friends.