St. Lucia's Prime Minister Pays Tribute to Sir Velon John

CASTRIES, St. Lucia – The ruling St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) has paid tribute to Sir Velon Leo John, who died on Friday at the age of 83.

Sir Velon John“Dr. Sir Velon John was a man of intellect, integrity, and immense national pride. His presence in our Parliament, our courts, and our communities was always dignified and impactful. He has left behind a legacy of wisdom, service, and principle that will inspire generations to come,” Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre said in a statement.

The SLP said that John, who served as a magistrate here and in the British Virgin Islands, led a life defined by service, scholarship, and statesmanship.

He was educated at the St. Francis Xavier University and the University of Ottawa in Canada as well as the University of Miami.

He practiced law in Toronto before returning to St. Lucia, and his political career began with his appointment as a Senator in the Parliament in 1988.

He later became Opposition Leader from 1996 to 1997. He also served as a government minister between 1992 to 2006.

“In addition to his political contributions, he was a published writer. His book, The Ramblings of a Mind (1999), and his essay “Legal System of St. Lucia” in the Modern Legal Systems Cyclopedia (Vol. VI, 1985), reflect his thoughtful engagement with law and society.

His contributions were recognized both locally and internationally,” the SLP said.

John was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his public service, and in 2023, he was knighted by the St. Lucia government, earning the title Dr. Sir Velon John, a distinction that reflected a lifetime of national contribution,”  the SLP added.