KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) is mourning the passing of one of its most respected stalwarts, Oswald Harding OJ, CD, KC.

Harding, who died recently at the age of 90 following a period of illness, leaves behind a legacy of distinguished service to both the party and the nation.

Born in Kingston in 1935, Harding was a founding member of the JLP’s Area Council One, served as deputy chairman of the party, and was a trustee to the party at the time of his passing. He was also the Jamaica Labour Party’s former candidate for St Andrew East Rural.

Known as the longest-serving senator in Jamaica’s history, Harding was the first president of the Senate to serve two non-consecutive terms, holding the position from 1980 to 1984 and again from 2007 to 2011.

In 1986, he was appointed minister of justice and also became the attorney general of Jamaica.

Paying tribute on Thursday, JLP Deputy Leader Desmond McKenzie described Harding as a committed servant of both party and country.

“The late Oswald Harding, whom many of us affectionately called Ossie, gave yeoman service to the Jamaica Labour Party. He also served Jamaica across several sectors. He was deeply committed to nation-building and genuinely believed in giving priority to initiatives that were in Jamaica’s best interest. We hail his contribution as being impactful, significant and worthy of emulation,” McKenzie said.

He added, “Ossie’s public service, given over many decades, no doubt required tremendous sacrifice. The Jamaica Labour Party is grateful to him and also appreciative of his family for allowing him the time to serve his party and country with distinction.”

McKenzie further extended his deepest condolences to Harding’s family, friends and colleagues.

“The Honourable Oswald Harding was no doubt a great Jamaican,” he said.