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Candlelight Vigil Held in Honor of Hon. Asot A. Michael (photo Wayne Mariette)
Close to two thousand residents gathered to pay tribute to the late St. Peter MP, whose untimely passing last month has left a profound impact on the community.
Many attendees donned white Asot Cares T-shirts, a symbol of unity and remembrance, as they held their candles high in honor of his legacy.
Leading the heartwarming candlelight vigil was Rawdon Turner, who had previously contested the St. Peter seat against Micheal during the last general elections.
Turner spoke about Michael with deep emotion, describing him as not only a friend but also a mentor, brother, and father figure to many.
“He was everything to the people—not just to St. Peter, but to the entire nation of Antigua and Barbuda,” Turner reflected, his voice resonating with admiration. “This man exemplified what true service to the community looks like, inspiring countless individuals in his unwavering commitment to the country.”
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Meanwhile Throughout the program, guests paid their respects during the viewing of the body, which remained open to allow mourners a final opportunity to say goodbye.
The vigil was attended by Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne, Hon. Maria Browne, Hon. Melford Nicholas, Former MP Lennox Weston, Senator Lamin Newton, former parliamentarian Arthur Nibbs, ABLP General Secretary Mary-Claire Hurst, and other dignitaries. Michael’s sisters, Theresa-Ann and Soraya, his son Nigel, niece, and other close family members were present, supported by a crowd of mourners from across the constituencies.
The formal program commenced with welcoming remarks from Sly J, who set the tone for the evening, reflecting on the purpose of the vigil and the legacy left by Hon. Asot Michael. Father George Williams delivered a prayer, calling for strength and comfort for the grieving family and community.
A scripture reading from 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 and the hymn Great Is Thy Faithfulness brought messages of faith and solace.
Throughout the evening, tributes were delivered in song, poetry, and heartfelt words, capturing the profound impact Asot Michael had on his family, constituents, and colleagues.
The voices of family members, friends, and community groups echoed through the court, blending personal memories with gratitude for his life of service.
No one else can fill Hon. Asot Michael shoe. What a loving soul. I know that he is in a much better place. I’m so sorry that his life was cut short. A number of persons would ha e benefitted from him this Christmas season. Rest in peace sir. You will be forever in our hearts.
Only God Knows
Asot wae a thief, and if he was Turner’s mentor, then beware !!
When the righteous thrive , the city rejoices , and when the wicked perish , there are shouts of joy.
Rest in eternal peace Mr. Michael. You will be missed and never forgotten. Condolences to the family.
Only God Knows
I wasn’t that close to Asot but as an Antiguan we have lost a special personality
We will all missed him
A very sad period of time for the Nation of Antigua and Barbuda
Even if he wasn’t in politics the late Asot was a great humbled person. From the days of the late Patrick A Michael in the 80s to now that family was always a caring and giving family rip my friend