Prime Minister Chastanet salutes Sir John as a legendary leader on the anniversary of his passing.

Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Allen M. Chastanet, has praised the legacy of the “Father of the Nation," Sir John George Melvin Compton, KBE, PC, who passed away on Sep. 7, 2007.

Sir John served as Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, as well as Saint Lucia’s Chief Minister and the first and only Premier.

Prime Minister Chastanet said that as the nation reflects on the life of Sir John, we must honor not just his contribution to Saint Lucia but his strong commitment to the development of the region.

“Sir John was a true statesman and he is respected regionally and internationally for his bravery against what at times seemed impossible odds. He was instrumental in the formation of organizations such as CARICOM that could represent the region on a broad scale, and he was significant in leading the way for Saint Lucia’s Independence and in helping to unite the West Indies," Prime Minister Chastanet said.

Sir John was also instrumental in the establishment of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the West Indies Association States Council of Ministers (WISA), and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Prime Minister Chastanet said that like so many leaders, he is inspired by the life and legacy of Sir John.

“Saint Lucia’s history is forever intertwined with Sir John,” he said. “All around us, every day, we see reminders of Sir John’s phenomenal contribution to the development of this country. Today, we as Saint Lucians must all reflect on the greatness Sir John exemplified. His independent spirit in the early days of local politics is what inspired him to form a new party in that of the United Workers Party (UWP), and his willingness to work with others and chart a course for Saint Lucia is why he is respected by even his fiercest adversaries.”

Prime Minister Chastanet also noted the significant development of infrastructure in Saint Lucia during Sir John’s time. He made mention of the visionary leader’s development of Rodney Bay, the Roseau Dam, the Hewanorra International Airport, the Millennium Highway, schools, harbours and much more.

Said the Prime Minister: “Sir John has facilitated the modernization of Saint Lucia. We still have a long way to go and I think if we keep the ideals that Sir John held in the beginning, it will serve us well.

"I join the nation in paying tribute to Sir John Compton, one of the greatest, legendary leaders of our time."