Senator Kazim Hosein: 'Khan in high spirits hours before his passing'

RURAL Development and Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein expressed shock and sadness at the passing of Energy Minister Franklin Khan having spoken to him just hours before on Friday.

“The man was in high spirits when we talked last night. He did not sound as though he was ill or anything,” said Hosein who may have been one of the last people to talk with Khan on Friday night.

Hosein who served with Khan in the Senate, told Newsday he called Khan around 9.45 pm to seek his advice but got no response.

“When I did not get him, I called Avinash Singh and Khan called back around 10 pm and he, Avinash and I, we had a three-way conference call. We spoke at length so I was surprised to learn of his passing this morning,” Hosein said.

Having succeeded Khan as Local Government Minister in 2016, Hosein said he often sought his advice on matters relating to the ministry and other issues.

“He was a role model, a mentor to me. We maintained a good relationship. He was someone you could always go to for advice. He was always there to support me and give me advice.

“He was a good Minister of Energy and he was a visionary,” Hosein said as he expressed condolences to Khan’s wife Laura and their family.

Independent Senator Dr Varma Deyalsingh also spoke of Khan’s knowledge as a senator and leader of government business based on his years of service and working knowledge of various ministries.

“He led his side with quiet dignity,” Deyalsingh said.

Recalling his history with heart challenges, Deyalsingh recalled that, “Just three weeks ago we chatted on the cardiac services in the country and he mentioned when he fell ill in China and was offered cardiac intervention by the Chinese authorities, he chose to return home to our healthcare.

“He batted well since his surgery. His dream was always for a better country, his legacy was also the mentoring of the young engineers in his ministry whom he spoke with pride.”

In a Facebook post, former Independent Senator Nikoli Jean-Paul Edwards and political leader of the Progressive Party said, “Trinidad and Tobago has lost a Minister, a Senator, a leader, a husband, a father, a friend and a fellow citizen.

“It's no secret that Senator Franklin Khan had a permanent smile on his face. I remember having been sworn into the Senate as a temporary Independent Senator, the usual practice would be for the new appointees to be welcomed to the Senate by the Leader of Government Business, the Leader of Opposition Business and the Coordinator of the Independent Bench.

“Senator Khan represented the Government and showed me no ill will or malice, but rather a warm inviting demeanour. It's these simple things that make you remember those among us.

“Today, upon learning about his death, I cannot help but think about his eternal smile and his years of service to this country. Regardless of our political differences, while not perfect, Senator Khan has worked for and on behalf of our beloved country and for this I join many others in saying, 'thank you!'

“To the loved ones and colleagues of Senator Khan, may you find comfort during this difficult time and the strength required to celebrate his life the way he would have liked.

“Our lives may be short but our legacies are forever.

“Rest in Peace.”

Former UNC Senator Vasant Bharath also expressed sincerest condolences to Khan’s family.

“May his soul be granted eternal peace,” Bharath said.