Sir Clifford Darling, 89 of Acklins, passed away on December 27, 2011. Born on February 6, 1922, Sir Clifford was a beloved member of the community known for his kindness and generosity. He was sworn in at Government House on January 2, 1992, by Chief Justice Joaquim Gonsalves-Sabola, succeeding Sir Henry Taylor, who retired the previous day .A former taxicab driver, he served as general secretary of The Bahamas Taxicab Union for eight years and as president for ten.

In the early 1950s, Sir Clifford bargained with hotels for better treatment for taxi drivers. In 1957, as president, Sir Clifford blockaded and closed the airport. A general strike followed in January, 1958. With Sir Clifford's help, an agreement among hotels, tour services and taxicab operators was reached.

Sir Clifford served as a PLP senator from January 1964 to January 1967. He then served as a Englerston MP from January 1967 to October 1969, when he was appointed to the Cabinet as Minister of State.

In November 1971, he was named Minister of Labour and National Insurance. He was responsible for the introduction of the National Insurance programme on October 7, 1974.

Sir Clifford was elected Speaker of the House in 1977 and knighted by the Queen the same year. He was a Stalwart Councilor, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a member of the Progressive Liberal Party.