By PETER GREEN
UNC Councillor for the Reform/Manahambre district, Vashti Sharmain Sookhoo, has died just after celebrating her 60th birthday.
Immediately following her death, condolences came from Minister of Rural Development and Local Government, Khadijah Ameen, and Member of Parliament for Naparima, Dr Narindra Roopnarine.
Sookhoo entered politics at the age of 16 and held roles on the executive of the Naparima constituency, women’s affairs officer, welfare officer, alderman and councillor. She was the founder of the NGO, “Friends of Reform/Manahambre. She was also Secretary of the Williamsville Hindu Temple.
In a post, Minister Khadijah Ameen wrote:
“On Saturday, Councillor Vashti Sookhoo, who represented the Reform/ Manahambre electoral district in the Princes Town Region, invited me to her book drive for over 50 children at Reform Community Centre. MP for Naparima Dr. Roopnarine was also present. I missed her 60th birthday prayers recently because I was abroad on official business so I made it my business to be there never knowing it would be the last time I’ll see her alive.
“She was her usual self. Busy as a bee. In the background making sure things were in order. Greeting every child by name. Calling everyone doll and babe and son. Introducing every member of her team and telling you how hardworking they were.
In my remarks I paid tribute to Vashti’s quiet persistence and dedication. Her consistency. I know this will be a tough blow for her daughter and two sons as they recently lost their dad as well. Vashti was a true gem and a soldier to the end. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
In a statement, the MP for Naparima, Dr Roopnarine, posted:
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Councillor Vashti Sookhoo, a true stalwart of Naparima and a dedicated servant of the people of Reform/Manahambre.
On behalf of my family, the Naparima Constituency Office, and the people of Naparima, I extend sincere condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, fellow councillors, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.
May her family find strength and comfort during this difficult tim
e, and may the memories of her service, kindness and dedication provide some measure of peace.
Rest in peace, Councillor Vashti Sookhoo.
Naparima has lost a stalwart, but the community she served will forever carry the imprint of her contribution.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
Funeral arrangements are still to be made.
