Former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley shared a heartfelt tribute on Father’s Day on her social media platform X, announcing the passing of her father, Ajit Singh Randhawa, a Sikh immigrant from India. Haley described her father as ‘the most decent man I’d ever known’ and highlighted his role in shaping her values of faith, hard work, and grace. The former governor of South Carolina expressed her deep sorrow at his loss, emphasizing his importance in her life and the impact of his teachings. Born in 1972, Haley detailed the unique journey of her father’s immigration from India to Canada, and eventually to South Carolina in 1969. Ajit Singh Randhawa, a biologist turned educator, faced challenges of racial discrimination and intolerance but maintained his Sikh identity with pride. Despite the struggles, he dedicated himself to his family, comprising four children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Having pursued a Ph.D. at the University of British Columbia, Randhawa’s legacy extended beyond family, impacting Voorhees College as a respected professor. Throughout her political career, Haley honored her heritage, embracing it as a symbol of strength and perseverance. In her 2023 bid for the Republican presidential nomination, she highlighted her immigrant roots and the values instilled by her father. Despite polarizing views within the party, Haley’s candid approach contributed to a unique narrative in American politics, emphasizing diversity and inclusion. While she suspended her campaign earlier this year, her advocacy for her father’s teachings remains a central theme in her public persona. The passing of Ajit Singh Randhawa marks a poignant moment in the life of Nikki Haley, prompting reflection on the legacy of a father who shaped not only her personal life but also her political beliefs and aspirations for the future.
