Robert Arrigo's death is a profound loss not only to his family but to all of us. Although no words can really help to ease the pain and loss we collectively bear, his family must know that they are very close in the thoughts and prayers of all those who, somehow or other, had the privilege of getting to know Robbie. I, and, surely, many others, pray that God will comfort you and will sustain you both during the bereavement period and in the future.

I regarded him as a man of all seasons. He was fit for purposes in whatever role he was assigned to. Prior to the last general elections, I remember him up and about in our electoral districts, at times with a mask on, and in a pair of sensible flat shoes for door-to-door. He had boundless energy and a cheerful spirit, even when he was not well.

Abraham Lincoln once said that character is like a tree, and reputation its shadow. The shadow is what we think of, but the tree is the real thing. Arrigo was of both good character and a good reputation. He was the real thing. At a time when ethical servant leadership is being called for, this accomplished but humble politician is the example we all look up to.

In his early political days, Robert viewed local government as an important sphere of government which is closest to our people. It is in this sphere of government where the provision of basic services such as water, electricity, health services and infrastructure development becomes a key element of service delivery.

It is thus that he was a remarkable man who championed the cause for development, particularly for the poor and downtrodden. He paid special attention to young people and promoted the interests of women and disadvantaged communities. He was held in high esteem by all and always made his presence felt when he was in the company of people because of his self-confidence and righteousness. He was truly an outstanding community leader with a glowing personality who made a remarkable contribution to the community and districts he represented. This seasoned politician of our Parliament has left an indelible footprint in the history of our country to build a better life for all our people.

Arrigo dedicated his entire life to upholding the noble values of peace, companionship, tolerance, equality and justice. In sanctifying his memory we will always value his friendship, his guidance, his frankness and his infectious sense of humour.

He remained loyal and dedicated to the Nationalist Party right to the very end. When opportunists, political weaklings, renegades and the uninformed jumped on the bandwagon to join an insignificant breakaway cabal, which is now spineless and in complete tatters, Robert stood his ground, mindful that he would never betray the legacy of the great leaders who sacrificed so much for his party and our motherland. Besides the church, his other home remained and always was the Nationalist Party.

Underpinning all these attributes, dear Robert, was your deep sense of concern for the poor, the downtrodden and the marginalised and these attributes are evident from the words of the esteemed commentators before me and certainly from those that will come after me. I am certain that many of us on these islands in general will emulate your exemplary life in bringing about a just and better world.

Robert Arrigo was a man of faith, he served God to the best of his abilities, he tried to be a good Christian and he tried to serve others with humility and compassion.

May he rest in peace.

 

Dr Mark Said

Msida