Cichester Toney pays tribute to Conley Rose

RIP soldier, I met you in Havana libre Hotel for the very first time in 1989, when you came to Cuba to pursue Trade Union studies and Political Science at the most prestigious political institute in Cuba for such studies at that time, ‘Nico Lopez Party School’. There you studied with real revolutionaries who fought real wars around the world. Revolutionaries from North, South and Central America,the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia.To my surprise this little ‘black boy’ was topping all the students and was among the most respected revolutionaries on Campus.(Coming from the smallest country on the campus).

“Chivambo “ Rose was one of the first signatories to the official documents for the fraternal bonds between SVG-Cuba Friendship Society and The Republic of Cuba signed in Havana. That signature in the 70’s has facilitated hundreds of Vincentians to pursue studies in Cuba up to today.First, by the UPM ,(United Peoples Movement) then by The Honourable James Mitchell administration, and presently, by the Government of SVG and the ruling ULP(Unity Labour Party, headed by Dr Ralph Gonsalves.

Additionally, through that historical signing, thousands of Cubans have visited our shores through cultural exchanges, professional assistance or simply tourism and vice versa.

His vision through the SVG -Cuba Friendship Society created the “marriage” of these two societies,where today, families and strong fraternal bonds have evolved with deep corporation between our two nations.

So too, he was the first person to have negotiated scholarships in the 80’s to undertake studies in the former Soviet Union .This he organized through his “Socialist Trade Union” organization.

Out of this endeavour, along with persons like Caspar London,(of blessed memory) scores of Vincentians were able to pursue tertiary education in diverse disciplines in various universities in the Soviet Union. Up to today, many still do so in the Russian Republic and ex Soviet Republics.

Conley “Chivambo “ Rose has been a true revolutionary who served this country well by creating an opportunity for thousands of Vincentians, especially those from humble beginnings.

He was not only loved by many persons here in SVG but also across the globe . We will miss you a lot my bother, so too will your three children and the Rose family and associated families. Many of your close friends will also mourn your transition to the other side .

You were an intransigent revolutionary, those who come along once in every generation. SVG has lost one of its finest Revolutionaries, greatest “risk takers “ and trailblazers . “Soul Rebel” by Bob Marley resonates well with the life of Conley Chivambo Rose, writer, author, poet , journalist,trade unionists, philanthropist, socio- economic and political activist . Rest well Conley “Chivambo”Rose .

Condolences to the Rose family and his children and his many friends and well wishers.SvG has lost an intellectual giant. A man years ahead of his time .

Note: (Conley Rose passed away on June 5, 2025. His funeral takes place on Monday, June 16, 2025 at the St George’s Cathedral).