Former Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and former Opposition Leader Robert Corbin has died at the age of 78.
Corbin passed away at a city hospital, where he had been a patient in the Intensive Care Unit. His passing was confirmed by PNCR officials.
A longstanding figure in Guyana’s political life, Corbin served as Leader of the PNCR from 2003 to 2012 and also as Leader of the Opposition. He was an elected Member of Parliament from August 1973 to October 1997 and again from 2001 to 2011.
During the PNC’s tenure in government, Corbin held several ministerial portfolios, rising to the position of Deputy Prime Minister from 1985 to 1992. He was elected PNC Chairman in 2000 and, following the death of former President and party leader Desmond Hoyte in 2003, assumed leadership of the party. He led the PNCR into the 2006 elections and eventually stepped down as party leader in 2012. Corbin was also an attorney-at-law.
President Dr Irfaan Ali joined in mourning Corbin’s passing, describing him as a “political stalwart” who occupied a place of prominence in public life.
“I join in expressing condolences on the passing of Mr Robert Corbin, a political stalwart and former Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform.
“As a former Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Government and longstanding Member of Parliament, Mr Corbin occupied a place of prominence in public life.
“At this time of profound loss, I extend my sincere condolences to Mr Corbin’s family and loved ones, to the leadership and membership of the People’s National Congress, and to its supporters throughout Guyana and the diaspora.
“May his family, colleagues and supporters find strength and comfort in the memories of his life and service, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.”