-by Celestine Chacon

President Irfaan Ali paid tribute to late former People’s National Congress Reform leader Robert Corbin, describing him as a formidable political rival, a skilled parliamentarian, and a dedicated advocate for national reconciliation.

The Head of State joined Corbin’s family, friends, and PNCR supporters today; as the former political leader was laid to rest.

President Ali hailed Corbin’s contributions to the promotion of coalition politics, shared governance, and racial harmony, noting that his vision for national reconciliation remains relevant to Guyana today.

“His life and political journey invite us to revisit not merely what was envisioned in 1950, but what we must do now electively to realize that vision in the Guyana of today,” he said.

The President recalled serving alongside Corbin in Parliament, where he said their political differences did not diminish his respect for Corbin’s preparation, debating skills, and insistence on accountability and scrutiny of issues affecting the Guyanese people.

He said Corbin’s legacy serves as a reminder that political leadership must look beyond party interests and contribute to Guyana’s wider development and unity.

“As we bid farewell to Robert Corbin, I wish, on behalf of the government and people of Guyana, and on my own behalf and that of my family, to extend heartfelt condolences to his wife, Carol, his children, his family, friends, colleagues, and the party which he served so loyally, may he rest in peace and may Guyana continue to pursue the national harmony and shared destiny to which he so often gave expression,” he said.

Meanwhile, PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton remembered Corbin as a dedicated party stalwart and mentor whose influence extended beyond politics to young people and the church community.

Norton said Corbin’s political astuteness and commitment to coalition politics continued throughout his political career, including his efforts to encourage constructive engagement across the political divide.

“Our party, our country, has lost one of the most loyal soldiers you can find…For us, Robert Corbin was loyal. For us, he was hardworking. For us, RHO was a mentor for us. He was the ideal PNC person for us. We have lost a stalwart who served with a selflessness that makes him irreplaceable him. You have done your job on earth, Robert Herman Orlando Corbin,” he said.

Tributes were also shared by representative from the Guyana Bar Association, Alliance for change, working’s people alliance, who all highlighted Corbin’s longstanding contribution to Guyana’s political life and renewed attention to his calls for cooperation, reconciliation, and national unity.