Caribbean leaders celebrate PM Ralph Gonsalves on his 78th birthday

Indeed, the heartfelt messages shared in the tribute video are suggestive of the way Gonsalves is held in great respect and regard by his peers.

9th of August 2024

Caribbean leaders celebrate PM Ralph Gonsalves on his 78th birthday

As the Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves celebrated his 78th birthday, leaders from across the Caribbean region joined in the celebrations, extending warm wishes and paying tribute to a man they hold as central to the politics of the Caribbean.

Indeed, the heartfelt messages shared in the tribute video are suggestive of the way Gonsalves is held in great respect and regard by his peers.

Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit was among the first to wish him a happy birthday. Skerrit described Gonsalves as an extraordinary human being with a wonderful spirit.

He further said that the Caribbean Prime Minister (SVG) celebrated his birthday with his monumental contribution not only to St Vincent and the Grenadines but the wider Caribbean and the world. Speaking of his youthful energy and dynamic mind, Skerrit wished him continued strength, health, and vigour to lead the Caribbean people.

The Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley described Gonsalves as her “dear brother.” She said that he was such a pivotal force in shaping Caribbean civilization, hoping that PM Gonsalves would be there for more. Mottley’s message was full of warmth and personal affection, promising a lot of hugs when they next meet.

“Birthday greetings to this great individual, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, as he celebrates his momentous 78th birthday,” said Prime Minister Philip E. Davis of the Bahamas. The message from Davis was irrepressible, since a lot in there was about life and promise that Gonsalves continues to live and embody.

From Grenada as well, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell joined in the celebration of Gonsalves’ special day, extending best wishes for a long, healthy life filled with blessings and vitality. Mitchell jocularly said that while he would be having a toast in celebration of Gonsalves’ birthday, he knew the Prime Minister (Gonsalves) would not be joining him in this activity.

Prime Minister of St Lucia, Philip J Pierre spoke of his great respect for Gonsalves, who he considered a mentor. Pierre jokingly remarked on the youth of the prime minister himself, saying that the latter was actually turning 18 and not 78, and referred to a “good wine” that has been put aside for a toast in Gonsalves’ honour.

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne joined others in sending birthday greetings and described Gonsalves as a “true Caribbean statesman.” He thanked the CARICOM intellectual leadership and sound advice that Gonsalves offered the regional leaders over the years. He further guaranteed that Gonsalves will always remain in the support of his Caribbean brothers and sisters as he ended his message by saying, “Much love and blessings”.

The video ends with officials from the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines referring to Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves as the “world boss,” which reasonably seeks to pay homage to the leader of the region and beyond.

PM Ralph Gonsalves’ 78th birthday, therefore, was no ordinary recognition of time passing but one of declaring his long shadow of influence and leadership across the Caribbean.

Listening to these leaders pass their genuine wishes, it became evident that Gonsalves is much more than a political figure; he is such a cherished comrade, mentor, and friend to many in the region.