Nassau, Bahamas - The following is a statement by the Hon. Fred Mitchell:
I learned yesterday with great sadness of the
passing of Rev Irvin Clarke of Exuma.The passing of Rev.
Clarke effectively severed the last living link in Exuma to the
original independence service in July 1973.
He preached the Independence service in 1973 and was a
fixture every year as a leading pastor and Christian leader in
Exuma.
I have joined the people of Exuma every year since
1998 to observe the nation's independence and he has always been
there. Sadly he was too ill to attend this year but we were able
to extend greetings to him by radio and later in the House of
Assembly.
So another soldier of the Independence movement has
gone on to eternity.I called Rev Franklin McKenzie and MP for Exuma
Anthony Moss yesterday to extend my condolences on his passing. I
extend to all his family and friends and to the people of Exuma
my condolences. He was a good man and an exemplary leader. A proud
Bahamian.
May he rest in peace.
