Cabinet minister Obediah ‘Obie’ Wilchcombe was found unresponsive at his home in Grand Bahama over the weekend, sending shockwaves throughout the political fraternity.

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in the Atlantic archipelago, while not referencing a cause of death, confirmed Wilchcombe’s passing today (September 25) and hailed the parliamentarian as a dedicated public servant.

Up to the time of his death, Wilchcombe was portfolio minister in the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting. He also served as Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Cabinet Minister Obediah Wilchcombe, who served as Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting and Leader of Government Business in the House of Assembly; Minister Wilcchombe dedicated his life to public service and made significant contributions to our nation,” the OPM stated noted.

“Prime Minister Philip Edward Davis will be releasing a formal statement shortly to honour Minister Wilchcombe’s legacy. The prime minister is en route to Grand Bahama to pay his respects and offer condolences to the family. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time,” it continued.

He first rose to prominence in 2002, securing his first term as representative of the West Grand Bahama & Bimini constituency under the ticket of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP).

Wilchcombe was formerly tourism minister in the 2012-2017 administration of Prime Minister Perry Christie.