Daaga’s power to the people

In a sea of vibrant patterns and colours, many of which were in NJAC’s party colour of purple, attendees arrived at the venue, pausing to pay their condolences to the political icon, whose body was available for viewing, or to sign the condolence book.

As people took their time to place their hands on the casket and get a final glimpse of the Chief Servant, as he was also known as, it was time for the Daaga family to say their goodbyes to their family patriarch.

The youngest son, Makandal Piankhi, gently placed his palm upon his father’s chest. His face was solemn as he bowed his head and absorbed the last private moment with his father, albeit in the presence of many. Nearby, Nefertari, the daughter of the late social activist, was comforted by her mother, Liseli.

To honour Daaga, the service featured speakers who recounted fond stories of him and spoke of his legacy. Yet highlights of the ceremony included a number of performances by artistes who paid tribute to the man who touched their lives.

Calypsonian Dr Hollis ‘Chalkdust’ Liverpool thanked Daaga for the changes that he brought about in society.

“If you proud, my child, of your Rasta hairstyle, while you thank Jah, say a li’l prayer for Daaga” Chalkdust sang as the crowd erupted into an animated sky of waving fists and shouted “one more time!” Representing the youth, Caryn McCarthy performed “Daaga My Hero”, which spoke of the efforts Daaga made “so we could be proud and free.” It was in the middle of her performance, however, that the young calypsonian broke into tears, only to be supported by the clapping and singing of the audience that surrounded her.

Such unity remained steady as supporters showed their alliance and loyalty to Daaga by joining in on chanting “power to the people” as NJAC flags soared overhead. With some attendees being moved to tears and others extending their fists in unanimity, the immortality of Daaga’s influence was evident.