Sir Shridath Ramphal

In marking the passing of Sir Shridath Ramphal, the second Commonwealth Secretary-General, who served from 1975 -1990, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, said:

It is with the greatest sorrow that we mourn the passing of Sir Shridath “Sonny” Ramphal. He was a giant of the Caribbean and one of the Commonwealth’s brightest lights.

As a committed internationalist, and my longest-serving predecessor as Secretary-General, Sir Sonny served the Commonwealth with extraordinary vision, compassion, wisdom, and a steadfast commitment to the values which bind our family of nations.

His statesmanship was rooted in his humanity. His leadership was characterised by his belief in the power of dialogue, diplomacy, and cooperation, and his unwavering dedication to justice.

His committed advocacy for the rights of small states, and his tireless work to bridge the divides which too often separate nations and peoples, was remarkable and visionary.

Above all, he will remembered for his principled and essential role in coordinating international opposition to apartheid in South Africa – the central achievement of a tenure marked by a resolute dedication to justice, equality, and the dignity of all people.

He guided the Commonwealth through some of its most challenging and transformative moments, and steered us into the modern era.

Nelson Mandela said of Sir Sonny, “He is one of those men who have become famous because, in their fight for human justice, they have chosen the whole world as their theatre.”

His life reminds us of the transcendent impact that one individual can have on the global stage.

His legacy is one of unity, hope, and a relentless pursuit of a more just and equitable world, with an influence which extends far beyond the Commonwealth. He leaves an indelible mark on international relations and his work will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.

As we mourn his loss, we celebrate a life extraordinarily well-lived. The Commonwealth is stronger, richer and more just because of his leadership, and the world is a better place for his vision and impact.

On behalf of the Commonwealth family of 56 nations and 2.7 billion citizens, I send my sincere and heartfelt condolences to Sir Sonny’s family, his loved ones, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

I will hold them all in my heart and in my prayers as we continue to serve the Commonwealth and honour the values he so passionately believed in. 

Note: The Commonwealth

• The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal sovereign states. Our combined population is 2.5 billion, of which more than 60 per cent is aged 29 or under.
• The Commonwealth spans the globe and includes both advanced economies and developing countries. Thirty-three of our members are small states, many of which are island nations.
• The Commonwealth Secretariat supports member countries to build democratic and inclusive institutions, strengthen governance and promote justice and human rights. Our work helps to grow economies and boost trade, deliver national resilience, empower young people, and address threats such as climate change, debt and inequality.
• Member countries are supported by a network of more than 80 intergovernmental, civil society, cultural and professional organisations.