Regional Leaders Reflect on Keith Rowley’s Legacy as He Announces Retirement

At his final Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government meeting as Prime Minister, Keith Rowley received well-wishes from regional leaders who reflected on their personal and professional relationships with him.

Rowley, 75, announced last month that he would resign before the end of his term, which concludes in August. After leading the People’s National Movement (PNM) to victory in 2020, he is stepping down after 45 years of public service.

Antigua & Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne acknowledged their differences but highlighted their strong friendship, calling Rowley a regionalist who made significant contributions to CARICOM and Trinidad & Tobago. Browne also joked about their shared interest in farming, noting their mutual nicknames: “Farmer Browne” and “Farmer Keith.”

He expressed confidence in Rowley’s successor, Stuart Young, and said his performance would ultimately determine his leadership.

St. Vincent & the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, who wore a red shirt in Rowley’s honor, emphasized the strong relationship between their parties, the Unity Labour Party and PNM. Gonsalves shared a quote from William Wordsworth on the transition of power, saying, “Bliss it was in that dawn to be alive, but to be Young was very heaven.”

Guyana President Mohamed Irfaan Ali praised Rowley’s contributions to regional issues and suggested that his retirement would allow him more time to influence regional policies. Ali expressed confidence in the abilities of incoming Prime Minister Young.

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit also extended his well-wishes, reflecting on their long relationship and Rowley’s 10 years as Prime Minister, hoping that his experience would continue to benefit the Caribbean.