[UPDATED] Former Laventille West MP NiLeung Hypolite dies

PNM chairman Stuart Young has expressed sadness over the death of former PNM Laventille West MP NiLeung Hypolite.

Hypolite, who was recently diagnosed with Acute Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATL), a rare and aggressive form of cancer, died on October 19.

In a brief comment sent via Whats App on October 20, Young said, "I offer sincere condolences to NiLeung Hypolite's family on his passing."

Young was happy to see and greet Hypolite at the PNM's September affair.

"He served the party and the country and may his transition be one of eternal rest."

Hypolite's first parliamentary stint was as a temporary government senator between October 17, 2002 and September 28, 2007.

He was first elected Laventille West MP on November 5, 2007, and served in this post until May 24, 2010, when the PNM lost that year's general election to the UNC-led People's Partnership coalition.

Between November 5, 2007 and May 24, 2010, Hypolite was parliamentary secretary in the Works and Transport Ministry.

He was re-elected as Laventille West MP on May 24, 2010.

Social Development and Family Services Minister Donna Cox also paid tribute to Hypolite.

"I am so sad to hear of NiLeung's passing."

Cox said the last time she spoke to Hypolite was not too long ago.

"I invited him to our annual September affair because he was always one who ushered for us. He was more or less the head usher."

Cox said Hypolite was initially unable to attend because of his ill health.

"I just got up one morning and I decided I would invite him to be a guest at the function once he can make it."

While waiting for his reply, Cox decided to have a plaque made for Hypolite to thank him for his service to PNM and TT.

She said Hypolite later agreed to attend the function and they sat together at the same table.

Cox added that Hypolite subsequently sent a WhatsApp message to her, thanking her for inviting him to the function and for the plaque.

That message read, "I want to express my personal thanks and gratitude to you. Also to say thanks for the token (plaque). Even with my illness, you have my fullest support and I do wish you great things into the future.

"Yet another successful event, from standing in the gap to last evening's event. You are a godsend. Thank you."

Cox recalled sitting next to Hypolite in the House of Representatives when they were opposition MPs from May 2010 to September 2015.

She was Laventille East/Morvant MP at that time.

"We enjoyed an excellent relationship together, working together for the people of Laventille."

Cox extended her condolences and prayers to Hypolite's family and friends.

She said his death was a reminder of the uncertainty of life and the need for people to live their best lives in the time given to them.

"We all who are alive have to pay heed to how we live our lives because today, we are here and tomorrow, we are gone."

Cox said, "Therefore, we have to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord Jesus Christ."

She added that Hypolite will live forever in her heart.

Cox was also grateful to have worked with him in the PNM's leadership.

She recalled being lady vice-chairman at one time and Hypolite was the head of the PNM's Youth League.

"I thank God for him."

The PNM expressed its sadness over Hypolite's death.

In a statement, the party said, "Our thoughts and prayers go out to his many relatives and friends. We share in your loss.

"May he rest in peace."

UNC Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal was also saddened to learn about Hypolite's death.

Moonilal said, "I had the honour to serve with him for many years."

He remembered Hypolite as a strong yet mild-mannered gentleman.

"He argued with passion but was never uncouth, obnoxious and disgusting."

Moonilal said he could not remember any incident during Hypolite's time as an MP that he ever "brought the House (of Representatives) into disrepute or odium."

He added that Hypolite was an MP who worked tirelessly for his constituents.

"May his soul rest in peace."

This has been adjusted to include additional details. See original post below.

PNM chairman Stuart Young has expressed sadness over the death of former PNM Laventille West MP NiLeung Hypolite.

Hypolite, who was recently diagnosed with Acute Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATL), a rare and aggressive form of cancer, died on October 19.

In a brief comment sent via WhatsApp on October 20, Young said, "I offer sincere condolences to NiLeung Hypolite's family on his passing."

Young said he was happy to see and greet Hypolite at the PNM's September affair.

"He served the party and the country and may his transition be one of eternal rest."

Hypolite's first parliamentary stint was as a temporary government senator between October 17, 2002 and September 28, 2007.

He was first elected Laventille West MP on November 5, 2007, and served in this post until May 24, 2010, when the PNM lost that year's general election to the UNC-led People's Partnership coalition.

Between November 5, 2007 and May 24, 2010, Hypolite was parliamentary secretary in the Works and Transport Ministry.

He was re-elected as Laventille West MP on May 24, 2010.