Former prime minister and People’s National Movement (PNM) leader Patrick Manning is watching his health as he contemplates whether he will once again contest the San Fernando East Constituency in the 2015 general elections.
At a special general membership meeting at the Pleasantville Community Centre yesterday, Manning said he will give a definite answer in due course after talking with PNM leader Dr Keith Rowley, who is currently out of the country. Manning's message was relayed through former public utilities minister Mustapha Abdul Hamid. Abdul Hamid told the meeting that Manning, who has had a speech impediment and problems with walking since suffering stroke, said he is not ruling out another five years as an MP but would not make a definite decision until early next year. Abdul Hamid assured that Manning could also get the job done although he was still recovering from the stroke.
A party official told the T&T Guardian that Manning and Rowley spoke about contesting the seat two weeks ago, but Manning said he needed time to assess his health. The official said although the audience erupted into loud cheers yesterday, many were disappointed that he was yet to make a decision. But the official added that not all party members were in favour of Manning returning for election because of his health.
Manning suffered a stroke on January 23, 2012, which paralysed his right side and affected his speech. He was on leave from Parliament in 2012 and 2013, having sought medical care in Cuba and the US, before returning earlier this year. Manning is currently the longest serving parliamentarian at age 68 and has represented his constituency since 1971.
