KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed deep sorrow at the passing of political stalwart, former Mayor of Morant Bay and Councillor in the St Thomas Parish Council, Hanif Brown.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of political stalwart Hanif Brown. Hanif was a personal friend. He will be remembered as a hard worker who was passionate not only about his family but also his work in politics and the trade union movement,” Holness said in a statement.

“He defended the rights of workers and dedicated himself to service in all he did. My condolences to his family as we embrace them with our prayers and love during this difficult time. Walk good my brethren.”

Brown, a veteran local politician and trade unionist, died on Wednesday.

He was 63 years old.

His political career spanned some 40 years having served the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) as Councillor for the Bath Division from 1981 to 1990. He was later elected representative for the White Horses Division from 2007 to 2012, the period he served as mayor of Morant Bay and chairman of the St Thomas Municipal Corporation. His election in two separate divisions in St Thomas is a feat that has not been repeated.

Brown also made significant contributions to the labour movement and served the Jamaican people and workers in Bustamante Industrial Trade Union in 1990. Two years later, he was promoted to island supervisor with responsibility for the eastern parishes.

In May, the Ministry of Labour recognised Brown for his contribution to labour relations.