Disengage ext. handle from operating bar

I had to replace my lock cylinder of the drivers side. I followed the instructions in my Haynes manual and it says to remove the screw in the door edge, slide the handle forward and then pivot out. Rotating the key 90 degrees to unlatch from the locking bar. I tried this but the plastic latch from the door handle stayed engaged with the operating bar inside the door. I tried to move the latch out of the way or push the bar out of the way with no luck. I finally got it out but discovered that I had broken the plastic latch on the door handle. I ordered a new handle.

Any tips on how to get the latch out of the way from operating bar inside the door?

thanks