BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – DEPUTY Prime Minister the Honourable Sam T. Condor has expressed condolences to the friends and family of local music icon Masud Sadiki, on behalf of himself, his family and his ministries.
Masud, legally known as Kevin Donovan, was on Monday evening (May 21) found hanging from a tree in the Old Road area and is believed to have committed suicide.
Condor – in an audio message disseminated to the media yesterday (May 22), said he was “deeply saddened” by Masud’s unfortunate demise and characterised him as a model artiste.
He said the ‘Stitch in Time’ artiste epitomised both positivity and goodwill and executed or supported projects with a great sense of passion and commitment.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Mr. Kevin Donovan alias Masud Sadiki, a local musician, entrepreneur and model artiste who use his creative genius celebrity and powerful platform to advocate for the United Nations and UNIFEM’s ‘Unite to end Violence Against Women’ Campaign.
“The brainchild of the United National Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, the campaign aspires to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls worldwide. This UN initiative collaborates with individuals, civil society and governments to put an end to violence against women in all its forms.
“…he championed this cause with passion and has committed to the project until 2015 to spreading the message of love for all women.”
Describing him as “a musical legend”, the Deputy Prime Minister said Masud’s physical presence would be “sorely missed” but seems to have taken comfort in the fact that “his music will leave an indelible mark on society…It is with a sense of hope, nonetheless, that we say so long to Masud because his lyrics with their powerful message of respect for women will resonate with all of us for a long time and will be a perpetual reminder of the value of life, relationships and friendships.”
The 37-year-old’s responsibilities extended beyond the limitations of his artistry, as he was also a son, father, husband and a community-minded individual.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family…I take this opportunity to convey sincerest condolences to the entire family. It is my hope that they will find comfort in knowing that they are not alone and that multitudes are praying for them at this very tragic time.
“On my own behalf and that of my family and the entire Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Immigration, Labour and Social Security, I convey our heartfelt sympathy for the family and friends of Mr. Kevin Donovan, alias Masud Sadiki.”
News of Masud’s tragic demise sent shockwaves throughout the Federation, the Caribbean and even further afield. He was known for his uplifting compositions which include ‘Count Your Blessings’, ‘I’m Still in Love’, ‘Love For Me Mama’ and ‘Log Out’. He was also one of the co-hosts of the St. Kitts Visitor Channel.
Condor is among many others who have expressed their shock and grief over the unexpected incident including Prime Minister the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil L. Douglas and Leader of the People’s Action Movement Lindsay Grant.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
