Jafaris on Michael D. Higgins: "He redefined the Irish head of state as a moral and cultural conscience"

Jafaris:

I think he did an impeccable job at representing Ireland in a positive light. Amongst all the highs and lows of his presidency, he still managed to stay neutral while emphasising social justice, equality and human rights. That must’ve been difficult considering the type of hurdles a man in his position may have to jump to still be able to speak his truth and maintain good will with those who hold executive positions.

The most striking aspect of his presidency to me was his undoubted intellect and humility. He redefined the Irish head of state as a moral and cultural conscience.

I had the pleasure of meeting him in 2019 at Áras an Uachtaráin. I got to perform for him and his family and some diversity representatives. It was such a wholesome experience. We took a pic and he was holding a vinyl of my album Stride in it.

I’d like to say a big thank you to Michael D. Higgins for his servitude. Although for most of his presidency I was very much unaware of his influence and impact, but as I’ve gotten older and taken an interest in the country’s affairs, I recognise we had a gem in Michael D. Higgins. He tried his best to highlight the positive aspects of our humanity and as a musician I’m biased to the fact that he established initiatives to support artists, cultural heritage and creative education.

We can only hope that his legacy will live on and manifest itself into the equal, culturally rich and sustainable society he saw for Ireland.

Read our in-depth cover story interview with Michael D. Higgins – and tributes from Cillian Murphy, Bob Geldof, Niall Horan, Dermot Kennedy, Denise Chaila and more – in the current issue of Hot Press, out now: