The death has occurred of Kertiste Augustus, general secretary and treasurer of the Waterfront and Allied Workers Union (WAWU). Augustus died at the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) on Friday after suffering from stroke. He was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday but remained unconscious until his demise on Friday.
His remains have been moved to Lyndhurst Funeral Home.
Survived by wife Lyrice and children, friends and colleagues have continued to mourn the passage of the social activist who was seen as the face and voice of WAWU. Event promoter and founder of Creole Heartbeat magazine, Leroy “Wadix” Charles said Augustus would be missed by all and remembered as a man who took on political and industrial giants in Dominica.
DFP chairman, Johnson Boston, also expressed sadness at the death of the WAWU leader, saying he was a very brilliant and self-restrained man. He said trade union movement will suffer a temporary setback in Dominica given Augustus’ fervent contributions to union activities and the welfare of union members across the country.
A sympathizer, Anthony P. Ismael, said Augustus’ vigorous contributions to WAWU speak for itself.
“Condolences to the family and members of WAWU,” he said. “Another son of the soil and fighter for the people, has left us much too soon. Although you’re no longer with us, you will never be forgotten. Your character and representation of workers speaks for itself. RIP sir.”
Just a week and half ago, the country also lost the last Premier and first Prime Minister of Dominica, Patrick Roland John.
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