Prime Minister P. J. Patterson (left) extending his personal appreciation to Mr. Seaga for his contribution to Jamaica. The Opposition Leader yesterday made a courtesy call on Mr. Patterson at Jamaica House.
-Rudolph Brown photoPRIME MINISTER P.J. Patterson extended best wishes to out-going Leader of the Opposition Edward Seaga during a courtesy call to Jamaica House by Mr. Seaga yesterday.
Mr. Seaga's resignation, which takes effect on January 19, was delivered to Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke earlier in the day.
During his Jamaica House visit, the 75-year-old Opposition Leader was advised by Mr. Patterson that Parliament will next Tuesday convene a special sitting to say farewell to his official departure from representational politics.
"But in a very special sense, I would like as Prime Minister to express my own best wishes for you as you depart from the field of active political leadership," the Prime Minister said.
A SENIOR POST AT UWI
Mr. Seaga is to assume a senior post in the Department of Government at the University of the West Indies.
During their 15-minute farewell talk, the Prime Minister told Mr. Seaga there were a number of constitutional amendments and legislative issues he had hoped to complete with him in his capacity as Opposition Leader. He added, however, that these would now have to be pursued with Mr. Seaga's successor.
In reply, Mr. Seaga said he intended to continue making his contribution to national development from another sphere.
Minutes after 11:00 yesterday morning, Mr. Seaga had his final visit to King's House as Opposition Leader. He spoke with Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke for about 20 minutes before handing him his resignation.
"I cannot say I accept it with joy," a teary-eyed Sir Howard said, as he took the resignation letter.
"Nor do I give it with joy," replied Mr. Seaga.
