Tributes flow at service for Fidel Castro

There was an outpouring of tributes to the late Fidel Castro during a service held in his honour at the Sons of God Apostolic Church yesterday. 

 

The service saw officials from various sectors and members of the Barbadian population gather, most of whom conveyed their thoughts of Castro as a man who invoked much change.

 

A representative from the Barbados Cuban Association, David Dinero, remembered Castro as being a defender of the poor and powerless people. Commenting on his humility, he noted that Castro asked that no road, building or monument be named after him. Nevertheless, since this cannot be done, Dinero posited that the continuous respect and building of Castro’s ideas is a major way in which he may be honoured.

 

Adding to these sentiments was David Commissiong, who spoke of his experience in the company of the Late Fidel Castro at a World Conference in 2001. He expounded on Castro’s boldness in asking for reparations for the enslaved territories even when authorities from various African countries said very little on the matter. Going further, Commissiong stated that Barbadians can learn much from his ways as even in the face of hardship, Castro did not compromise Cuba’s education, healthcare nor cultural development.

 

Confident, happy and assured are some of the words which Commissiong used to describe how he believes Castro left this world; bearing in mind that his ideals will be carried on for generations to come. Given this, Commissiong stated, “It is no sense mourning a man that cannot die…so there is nothing for us to mourn, there is much to celebrate.

 

In addition, the Cuban Ambassador, His Excellency Francisco Fernandez hailed the good deeds of Fidel Castro. He explained that Castro showed how unity is essential in order to overcome, and he grew a country in a difficult situation. He also encouraged them to be proud of who they are, worked with and for the people, and he made many accurate predictions. Due to all of this, Cuba enjoys many benefits; for instance His Excellency stated that Cuba is an institutionalised country, women are living comfortably and confidently, workers have rights and they are an educated people.

 

Member of the Barbados Labour Party, Trevor Prescod; Attorney-at-law, Robert “Bobby” Clarke and the Venezuelan Ambassador to Barbados, His Excellency Francisco Manuel Perez Santana were also among those who paid tribute.