Edward Leblanc, 81; Led Dominica Toward Independence
Edward Oliver Leblanc, 81, former premier of Dominica who led efforts toward the Caribbean island’s independence, died Friday of unknown causes at his home in Vieille Case, Dominica.
Leblanc became premier in 1967 when the island was granted internal self-government under British rule. He served until 1974, introducing cultural and social practices leading toward Dominica’s full independence from Britain on Nov. 3, 1978.
The politician joined the Dominica Labor Party in 1957. He was also a member of the Trinidad-based Federal Government in 1960 and was first elected to the Dominica House of Assembly in 1961 as political leader of his party. He was a chief minister before becoming premier.
Leblanc became the island’s only political leader to win contested elections in three different constituencies. He was so popular that some suggested if he “dressed up a broomstick” and asked voters to vote for that broomstick, they would do as he requested.
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