Guyana Mourns the Passing of Veteran Diplomat Elizabeth Harper
By Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News
On Saturday, just before the swearing-in ceremony of the new People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) Cabinet, Guyana was struck by the sad news of the passing of Ambassador Elizabeth Harper.
President Irfaan Ali hailed Harper as one of Guyana’s most outstanding citizens, praising her decades-long service and unwavering dedication.
“Her passing is a monumental loss for our country,” President Ali said, adding that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Regional and International Tributes
Tributes poured in from across the region. Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, described Harper as a true regional stateswoman.
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Elizabeth Harper, whose public service career spanned over four decades. Liz was a consummate professional and diplomat, someone who understood that effective diplomacy combines both competence and genuine human connection,” Mottley said.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) also issued a statement, calling her passing “a profound loss for Guyana and the wider region,” and lauding her as “a consummate diplomat who embodied the highest standards of professionalism, grace, and efficiency.”
Opposition Condolences
The APNU coalition joined in expressing condolences, highlighting Harper’s remarkable contributions to the foreign service.
“She became a member of the foreign service at a rather tender age, just after leaving high school, during a time when Guyana was still building its internal institutions and external representation,” the coalition noted.
A Distinguished Career
Elizabeth Harper’s career spanned over 40 years in public service, during which she rose to become Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She was widely respected for her diplomatic skill, professionalism, and grace, and remembered as a proud daughter of the soil who served her nation and region with distinction.
She passed away at the age of 67.
