Swetes Main Road to Be Renamed After Rufus Lewis, PM Says at Funeral
Swetes Main Road will be renamed in honor of veteran labor leader Rufus Adolphus Lewis, Prime Minister Gaston Browne said Friday during Lewis’ official funeral service, describing him as a national figure whose contribution rose above that of many of his contemporaries.
Browne said the decision to rename Swetes Main Road followed discussions earlier with his Cabinet colleagues.
In an earlier tribute, the prime minister also said Lewis’ life merited official funeral honors, a recognition reserved for individuals whose service had a lasting national impact.
In addition to his remarks during the service, Browne was reported to have written a separate tribute that was published outside of the funeral program, further underscoring the government’s view that Lewis’ contribution warranted formal commemoration.
Lewis, who died Dec. 20 at age 98, was a long-serving figure within the Antigua Trades and Labour Union and was widely credited with advancing workers’ rights during the post-colonial period. His funeral drew senior government officials, union leaders, clergy and members of the public, with tributes emphasizing both his role in labor history and his personal integrity.
Details on the timing and formal process for renaming Swetes Main Road are expected to be announced by the government.
