The demise of Dr Siddick Chady 40 days after his release from prison took everyone by surprise, his family, his friends, his party members, the political class in general and a significant fraction of the population of various convictions. Prominent political figures, among others, paid him a last tribute before he was conveyed to Riche Terre cemetery the next day.
“Shocked”. Nawaz Noorbux of the Defimedia group had no other words to express his deep sorrow. It was he who interviewed Dr Chady shortly after his release. This was going to be the sole interview the ex-Minister had before he passed away. And it was full of revelations about life in prison.
Mr Chady had given minute details of the treatment and conditions of life prevailing there. “By all means don’t get sick when you are in prison,” he pleaded with raised eyebrows. As a doctor he was appalled by the state of medical administration which had a lot to desire from basic human treatment. But there are other issues that call for closer attention from the authorities. He couldn’t understand how despite stringent security controls mobile phones with active sim cards and drugs were available with frequent lavish parties. “A cigarette could cost up to Rs 500, a packet up to Rs 20,000”. Mr Chady had resolved, as expressed in the interview, to write about these serious state of affairs and alert the authorities on what he believed could serve as remedial measures.
Mr Chady’s conviction on grounds of alleged bribery seems to act as a wake up call: no politician is above the law. Whether justice is done or not a court judgment prevails. It may be hard to assume. He bowed to his fate, while categorically asserting his innocence which he was contemplating to fight for now that he was liberated.
For him it was the toughest moment of his life. He could never have thought even for a second that he would have to go through such an ordeal. In the days of glory, and in the days you hold power, people mushroom around you. In harsh moments when devoid of power and glorious position you face the challenges in solitude. The intense feeling of loneliness and abandonment that he felt in the dark blue vehicle nicknamed Black Maria, with an unwieldy atmosphere, flashed in his mind as a voyage in a coffin. Was it a premonition? Absolutely no view of the outside world through the barred windows. Images of un-anticipated circumstances of betrayals, backstabbing, hypocrisy and the fate of having been apparently let down to carry the cross haunted his mind, dragging him down emotionally. It’s then that spirituality manifests itself as a solace. There’s nobody, only you and God. The holy scriptures act like the threads that connect you with the only omniscient. He strived to live up, to the extent possible, to the resilience required to bite the bullet.
The narrative of Mr. Chady’s life sheds light on the prevalent self-serving motives of certain individuals who enter the political arena. The stark contrast between the camaraderie experienced during times of success and the desolation faced in times of crisis exposes the harsh realities of life that often pervade political circles. His story serves as a life lesson to aspiring politicians, underscoring the significance of loyalty, authenticity and unwavering dedication to the greater good.
Betrayal can emerge from unexpected sources, whether from supposed allies, friends, or even family members. Mr. Chady’s experiences underscore the importance of vigilance and discernment in navigating the treacherous terrain of politics. In advocating for a just cause, one has to be on his guards, all the time, because the traitor may be the wolf in a sheep’s clothing, ready to strike when least expected.
Dr Siddick Chady’s case reminds us that true worth is often only recognized in the absence of an individual. His story serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of one’s actions and character that paves the way to inspiration from his journey in an endeavour to embodying the values of integrity, unity, and service to create a better future for all.
May his soul rest in peace.