The Alliance For Change (AFC) has joined the nation in mourning the death of former People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Leader and Opposition Leader Robert Herman Orlando Corbin, recognising his decades of service and his contribution to Guyana’s political development.
Corbin, who died on October 4, 2026, at age 78, served in several senior political positions, including as a Member of Parliament, government minister, Deputy Prime Minister, PNCR General Secretary and Chairman before becoming party leader and Leader of the Opposition.
In a statement, the AFC described Corbin as an “astute politician” and “formidable strategist,” saying his political influence extended beyond the offices he held.
“Mr. Corbin was an astute politician, a formidable strategist and a man whose political mind was, in many respects, second to none.”
The AFC placed particular emphasis on Corbin’s contribution to political cooperation and opposition unity, crediting his strategic vision and willingness to engage with other political forces with helping lay the groundwork for the formation of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
APNU was subsequently expanded into a broader opposition coalition, which later entered into the Cummingsburg Accord with the AFC ahead of the 2015 General and Regional Elections.
The AFC said the political developments represented an important moment in Guyana’s history and demonstrated what could be achieved when political leaders looked beyond immediate partisan interests in pursuit of wider national objectives.
“That achievement represented an important moment in Guyana’s political history and demonstrated the possibilities that can emerge when political leaders are prepared to look beyond immediate partisan considerations in pursuit of a larger national objective.”
The relationship between the AFC and PNCR was not without tensions and political disagreements, particularly during the early years of the AFC’s existence. However, the AFC said Corbin maintained a level of restraint and respect in his dealings with the party.
The AFC said he never allowed political differences to develop into personal hostility or disrespect.
“In his engagements with the Alliance For Change, he consistently demonstrated maturity, stoicism, restraint and a strong sense of nationalism.”
The party said that aspect of Corbin’s political character deserved particular recognition at a time when political competition can easily become personal.
According to the AFC, Corbin understood that political rivalry should not eliminate opportunities for dialogue and cooperation.
“Politics can be intensely competitive, but Mr. Corbin understood that political competition need not destroy the possibility of dialogue, cooperation or mutual respect.”
The party said his approach reflected an understanding that political leaders and parties are temporary custodians of a country whose interests transcend individual political organisations.
The AFC’s tribute comes as political parties, labour organisations, civil society groups and former political colleagues continue to reflect on Corbin’s contribution to Guyana’s political history.
His political career began during his youth involvement in the PNC and spanned successive administrations and periods of significant political tension. He entered Parliament in 1973 and later served in government under President Forbes Burnham before becoming one of the principal figures in opposition politics.
The AFC said it was honouring Corbin not only for the offices he occupied but also for his contribution to the evolution of Guyana’s political landscape.
“The AFC therefore honours Robert Corbin not only for the offices he held, but for the contribution he made to the development of Guyana’s political landscape and to the evolution of a young nation.”
The party extended condolences to Corbin’s widow, children, wider family, colleagues and friends.
“The AFC recognises and honours Robert H.O. Corbin’s service to Guyana and his contribution to the formation and development of our young nation.”
The party concluded its tribute by expressing hope that those mourning his passing will find strength and comfort during their bereavement.
“May his soul rest in peace.”
