By Sue-Ann Wayow

INDEPENDENT Senator Deoroop Teemal has been described as a true patriot and exemplary citizen serving the nation with distinction.

Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles joined with the national community in remembering Teemal who passed away on Sunday.

Beckles said on Monday, Teemal was a distinguished son of the soil whose life was marked by integrity, patriotism, and unwavering service to the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

Appointed to serve in several parliaments, he displayed the unmistakeable qualities of a practical and pragmatic patriot she said, a man of fierce independence, embodying the highest ideals of impartiality in public service.

Beckles said, “As a member of the independent bench in the Senate, his contributions to parliamentary debate were thoughtful, balanced, and deeply rooted in principle. He consistently sought the national interest above all else and brought a calm, sober-minded clarity to even the most contentious of discussions.”

She said, “His wise counsel was respected across the parliamentary spectrum, and his voice, measured, reasoned, and constructive, was truly a guiding light in our democratic process.”

Beckles also remembered Teemal as a trained engineer whose technical expertise was always directed toward the betterment of  society.

She said, “He had a deep and abiding care for the environment and championed sustainable development long before it became a global imperative.

“His advocacy in this area reflected a forward-thinking vision and a sincere concern for future generations.”

Beckles remembered him as President of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), playing a pivotal role in the preservation and promotion of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage.

“He often spoke to the importance of religious and cultural festivals and celebrations as enduring parts of our national identity. He brought to this role the same grace, wisdom, and diplomacy that marked every aspect of his public life.”

Beckles said, “To all who knew him, Senator Teemal was a pleasant and gentle being, level-headed and deliberate, a wise sage, non-confrontational, and a good listener. His humility was matched only by his depth of thought, and his interactions, whether in the Senate, the community, or within civil society, reflected a deep, profound respect for others, even when it was not reciprocated.”

The opposition leader extended condolences to all who were close to him, his family, friends and colleagues.

“Trinidad and Tobago has lost a true patriot and exemplary citizen. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Mrs Geeta Teemal, his children, his family, his colleagues, and all those who had the honour of working alongside him. His life was a model of civic responsibility and moral fortitude, and his legacy will endure,” she said.