Edward Seaga dies on his 89th birthday

May 28, 2019

Edward Seaga has died on his birthday. He was 89.

The former prime minister died at a hospital in the United States where he was undergoing medical treatment. 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in confirming the death, said Seaga passed away approximately 1 p.m. Jamaica time.

"It is with great sadness that I inform the nation of the passing of the Most Honourable Edward Phillip George Seaga, the fifth prime minister of Jamaica," Holness said.

 

"The family of Mr Seaga has asked me to express gratitude on their behalf for the many prayers and messages of comfort and support offered by the people of Jamaica. The necessary arrangements are in place for Mr Seaga’s body to be flown back to Jamaica at the earliest possible time."

As prime minister, Seaga served from 1980-1989. He was the leader of the Jamaica Labour Party from 1974 to 2005, during which time he lost five (1976, 1989, 1993, 1997, 2002) of the six general elections contested. Seaga was appointed to the Legislative Council at age 29. He was the youngest appointee ever.

 

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