Dear Editor,
I write to pay tribute to Shri Komal Chand. I am saddened at his passing, but also inspired by his work. A respected representative of the working people has gone ‘Beyond’.
This was a man of conviction, a man standing 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 be returned to those values now more than ever, as dark clouds gather over the outcome of elections that threaten the fabric of the nation.
Komal cut his teeth in collective bargaining and trade unionism under Jagan’s tutelage. The labour movement salutes this illustrious son at his passing. Sugar workers everywhere remember and honour this man, who gave so much to people he cared for so deeply.
I knew Komal long before he became leader of GAWU, and had the good fortune of being able to interact with him on political developments countless times at his home, at the GAWU Secretariat, at social events, and even 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 the courage to speak out against wrongs, even in the political party he belonged, and even in 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. At the bargaining table, he never shirked in his commitment 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 derecognition of GAWU did not cower him; instead, they motivated him to work harder for the working class.
His death has brought immense sorrow to the nation, and gratitude for his contributions to the independence movement, the struggle for democracy, and representation of sugar workers. Coming one month after a general election, His death has drawn praise for his legacy, with even political opponents praising his contribution to the country’s development and to the struggle for democracy. As a labour leader, he possessed enormous passion and courage to stand up for the working class.
Like his predecessor, Jagan, who had led GAWU, Komal had a labour heart. And aside from Jagan, I can’t think of any other labour leader who was so committed to their members.
He was also highly regarded among organized labour’s leaders across the country. He gave labour solidarity to other unions, and 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. Condolences to his family!
Yours truly,
Dr Vishnu Bisram
