Komal’s caring and socially inclusive values

Apr 12, 2020 Letters

Dear Editor,

I write to pay tribute to Shri Komal Chand. I am saddened with his passing, but I am also inspired by his work on behalf of the poor and working class.
He was a man of conviction. He stood up for what was right for Guyana seeking to make the country a stronger, kinder, and better place through his politics and labour leadership.
He was a caring, socially inclusive, and forward-thinking person. The country needs to return to these values now more than ever as dark clouds are gathering over the outcome of elections that threaten the fabric of the nation.
Komal cut his teeth in collective bargaining and trade unionism under Cheddi Jagan’s tutelage.
The labour movement rightly salutes this illustrious son.
Sugar workers everywhere remember and honour this man who gave so much to people he cared for so deeply.
I know Komal long before he became leader of GAWU and had the good fortune to interact with him on political developments countless times at his home, at GAWU Secretariat, at social events, and over the phone.
He would share various pamphlets, newsletters, handouts and invitations to social functions.
This union leader possessed a moral framework for his leadership. He never lacked courage to speak out against wrongs even in the political party he belonged and even of internal party politics; he spoke his mind and laid out his position publicly.
He was a fine man who never lost his humility and simplicity speaking softly and gently even when in anger. He was an able administrator and affable union leader. He was a wonderful human being who relentlessly fought for the working class and their families.
He never shirked in his commitment at the bargaining table to get the best for workers. At a time when the term “collective bargaining” still held some meaning in Guyana, he was able to use the strength of GAWU’s membership by employing a variety of tactics, including strikes, to gain better working conditions and wages for workers.
Threats of de-recognition of GAWU did not cower him. Instead, they motivated him to work harder for the working class.
His death has brought immense sorrow and gratitude for his contributions to the nation in the independence movement, the struggle for democracy, and representation of sugar workers.
His death a month after a general elections drew forth praise for his legacy, with even political opponents praising his contribution to the country’s development and to the struggle for democracy.
He possessed enormous passion and courage as a labour leader to stand up for the working class. Like his predecessor Jagan who led GAWU, Komal had a labour heart.
Aside from Jagan, I can’t think of any other labour leader so committed to their members.
He was also highly regarded among organized labour leaders across the country. He gave labour solidarity to other unions.
He lent support to campaigns of other labour unions to improve conditions and wages for predominantly black workers.
Komal’s vision of social unionism and broad coalition building as well as of inclusive governance in the interests of a more just society could help revive not only the labour movement but efforts to move the nation in a more positive direction as we try to find a solution to the current intractable election impasse.
Labour is much poorer today because of Komal’s passing.
He deserves accolades and the nation’s highest honours for distinguished serve in politics and for his representation of workers. The country will miss him, but his legacy will stand the test of time. I thank him for his contribution to the labour movement and the nation.
Condolence to his family!

Dr. Vishnu Bisram

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