NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – Prime Minister Phillip Davis on Monday led Bahamians in observing the 25th anniversary of the country’s first prime minister, Sir Lynden O. Pindling, who died on August 26, 2000, at the age of 70.
Sir Pindling, who served as the country’s first black premier from 1967 to 1969, before serving as prime minister from 1969 to 1992.
“Twenty-five years ago, our country lost a leader whose vision, courage, and determination transformed the course of Bahamian history. Sir Lynden was the architect of modern nationhood. He guided our people from colonial rule to independence, allowing us to stand tall and claim our rightful place in the community of nations.
“ His leadership, often tested by the challenges of the times, was marked by a steadfast belief in the capacity of Bahamians to govern ourselves and to shape our own future,” Prime Minister Davis said of the former leader of the ruling Progressive Labour Party (PLP).
He said that the country must also acknowledge the role played by his widow, Dame Marguerite Pindling, who for a quarter of a century has preserved his legacy with dignity, grace, and quiet strength.
“On behalf of the government and the people of The Bahamas, we extend to her, and to the entire Pindling family, our deep gratitude for sharing him with us and for sustaining his memory through their own sacrifice and devotion.
“This anniversary calls us not only to remember but to recommit ourselves to the ideals for which Sir Lynden lived and laboured. His life’s work was the pursuit of a Bahamas in which freedom was secure, democracy was strong, and opportunity was shared.
“That charge remains before us. It is now for us to take up the mantle, to protect the progress we have made, and to advance even further the dream of a just, prosperous and united Bahamas,” Prime Minister Davis said, adding “on this solemn day we ask Bahamians everywhere to join us in pausing, whether in prayer, in reflection, or in simple gratitude, for a life that changed our destiny.
“There is no doubt that his example continues to inspire new generations. His memory remains a guiding light for us as we work to strengthen our democracy and deepen our sense of national pride. I hope that the nation he led continues to be worthy of his sacrifice.”
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