Dear Editor,

I would like to express my sympathy and condolences to Danny Buchanan’s family, friends and wide circle of associates from his party and government activities which made him into such an outstanding public citizen. Danny Buchanan was a household name in Jamaica and he must have been one of the most liked politicians and public figures in Jamaica, as we all saw and heard from people’s responses to him across the country over many years, regardless of their political affiliations.

I was associated with Danny Buchanan in various ways over some 40 years. Our association was one which changed from time to time. We worked together, then parted company and returned to work together on various projects, the last significant one being the appraisal of the People’s National Party’s performance in the 2007 general election and the plans for restructuring the party’s life and activities.

Despite the changes in the level of our association, there was no change in Danny’s responses and regard for me; in fact we had an association of mutual respect and admiration for each other. To be in Danny’s company was a special event: either very serious and productive or entertaining and enjoyable, most times a combination of both.

Danny was special to Jamaica, the Parliament, the People’s National Party and to the people of St Elizabeth. Danny was from a family of legendary patriots and he was a proud descendant of that tradition. He was a man full of knowledge, history, love and kindness for his people. It was an uplifting experience to be in Danny’s company. We have lost a great and trustworthy friend and Jamaica has lost another outstanding son.

Richard “Dickie” Crawford

Kingston 8

musicman978@hotmail.com