The Eastern Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is observing a day of solemn remembrance as it bids an official farewell to one of its most distinguished legal minds, the late Sir Gerald Watt KC. The state-sanctioned funeral, currently in progress, is drawing a confluence of the nation’s highest dignitaries, judicial figures, and citizens united in grief and respect.
Sir Gerald Watt’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of the region’s jurisprudence. His career, spanning several decades, was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice and legal excellence. He served with immense distinction as a former President of the Senate and as a long-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives, roles in which he was revered for his profound integrity, sharp intellect, and masterful command of parliamentary procedure. His contributions extended beyond the legislature into the courtroom, where he was a formidable and highly respected King’s Counsel, shaping landmark cases and mentoring generations of legal professionals.
The official funeral ceremony, imbued with full state honors, reflects the magnitude of his service to the nation. The proceedings include solemn tributes, a gun salute, and the draping of the national flag over his coffin, symbolizing the country’s deep gratitude. Eulogies from the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice are highlighting his pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions and his profound personal impact on all who knew him.
This event transcends a mere funeral; it is a national moment of reflection on the values of service, principle, and dedication that Sir Gerald Watt embodied. His passing signifies the loss of a foundational pillar in the Commonwealth’s legal community, but his extensive work and ethical standards leave an indelible blueprint for future leaders in law and governance.