The People’s National Party (PNP) today said it was deeply saddened by the death renowned attorney and human rights activist Nancy Anderson, who died Monday (November 29) after a brief illness.

In a statement, the PNP offered its condolences to Anderson’s family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.

“Although she was not born in Jamaica, Miss Nancy was a true patriot,” the PNP said.

“She fell in love with our beloved island home Jamaica, gave of herself in public service and became a citizen of our great nation.”

The party said it was pleased to celebrate the life and legacy of the attorney “who offered her time and talents in defence of many disadvantaged Jamaicans”.

Anderson was a member and officer of election observer body Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE), for which she will be remembered for her work as a parish coordinator, director and secretary.

The PNP’s comments came after several Jamaicans took to social media on Monday to express their own shock and sadness to learn of the passing of a woman who was well known for assisting in having a number of Jamaicans released from prison after spending decades behind bars without conviction having been found unfit to plead.

Among those who commented was Gordon Robinson, attorney and newspaper columnist, who said on Twitter: “I’m shocked & saddened by Nancy Anderson’s passing. She was one of the most beautiful sincere caring committed humans I’ve met. &OldBC loved her! I’ve heard the rumour she wasnt born here but u wdnt know by her behaviour. She was a true Jamaican. R.I.P Nancy. You’ll b sorely missed.”

Said Mark Golding, president of the PNP: “Nancy Anderson was a devoted human rights advocate who practised law w/a passion for helping the poor & vulnerable. A naturalized Jamaican, she helped to build important institutions dedicated to the pursuit of human rights. RIP Nancy – you fought to make Jamaica more fair & just.”

Clive Mullings, attorney, radio talk show host and former Jamaica Labour Party member of parliament and government minister, said: “Saddened to learn of the passing of Nancy Anderson. Nancy was exceptional in using the law to advocate for the rights of the poor in this country. She did so without any desire for personal fame. Nancy was down to earth and forthright. A fearless advocate was tireless.”

STELLAR MEMBER OF CIVIL SOCIETY

The PNP said it joined all of Jamaica in reflecting on Anderson’s legacy as a stellar member of civil society, director of the Independent Jamaica Council for Human Rights, Secretary of the Jamaican Bar Association, coach of the Norman Manley Law School Moot Competition Team, and so much more.

Anderson was a graduate of Michigan State University, the University of London, and the Norman Manley Law School, and is said to have first come to Jamaica as a United States Peace Corps volunteer in 1969.

She subsequently spent a year teaching, eventually became a Jamaican citizen and was admitted to practise as an attorney in the island in 1981.