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Boysie Ramkarran’s skills in Parliament were appreciated by all

Mar 14, 2009 Letters

Dear Editor,
I write in regard to the various exchanges appearing in the newspapers about the late PPP stalwart and freedom fighter, Boysie Ramkarran.
I did not know Boysie, as he was popularly called, and did not have the good fortune to interact with him as I would have liked. But I heard glowing remarks about him, and in fact even a worthy political opponent as Mayor Hamilton Green showered praises on him.

In my travels in Guyana and interactions with political figures during the 1980s, people spoke positively of Boysie, describing him as a remarkable politician.
They told me he was one of the most honest politicians in Guyana. He was brilliant in Parliament and had a quick wit that evoked laughter on both sides.  His debating skills and sarcasm were appreciated by all, and he made parliamentary proceedings lively.

Boysie was also a serious student and analyst of our politics, and his views were often solicited by prominent individuals from other parties.
Once during an interview with Eusi Kwayana for an article I was writing, Eusi referred me to a pamphlet written by Boysie (don’t recall the exact title but it was on “Race”) that was brilliantly done. Eusi also had positive comments about it.
Boysie was also very respected by politicians outside of his party. His passing evoked comments of shock and sympathy.

I remember at a forum at the Pegasus (July or August 1990 when I came down to Guyana from NY for summer vacation from teaching), Janet Jagan told Kwayana that Boysie had passed on and Kwayana in his gentle voice expressed his condolence. “I am sorry to hear that” (or something to that effect), Kwayana said. A large gathering (from among the Opposition) was in attendance at the forum to present their views to the Shridath Ramphal Commission on West Indian Integration following a massive picketing exercise in front of the Pegasus.

Subsequently, there was a memorial service for Boysie at Freedom House, and representatives of all the parties poured glowing tributes on the late PPP stalwart. I did not stay for the service that was overflowing with people. I believe Kwayana spoke on Boysie and also penned a tribute (if not his own, then the WPA’s) that was published in the press.
I cannot comment on who was wittier in parliament – Forbes Burnham or Boysie Ramkarran. But Boysie was highly respected. People saw in him a gentleman whom they could trust. They reposed faith in his integrity and honesty.
Vishnu Bisram

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