It was handshakes and smiles between Diego Martin West MP Dr Keith Rowley and political leader of the People's National Movement, Patrick Manning, yesterday. The two appeared in the public domain for the first time since Rowley was fired as Minister of Trade and Industry, and the war of words between them concerning the affairs of the Urban Development Corporation of T&T (Udecott). During the PNM's presentation of candidates at Woodford Square, Port-of-Spain, as Rowley's name was announced to contest the Diego Martin West constituency, the crowd of supporters screamed at the top of their voices, waving flags and shouting his name. The dusty Woodford Square did not prevent them from cheering Rowley for about three minutes.
Rowley had been scheduled on the party's programme to speak in position number three–where St Joseph MP Kennedy Swaratsingh spoke instead. Interviewed after the launch of candidates, and asked why he did not speak, Rowley said: "I have spoken in the last two elections." The party's public relations officer, Jerry Narace, also interviewed after the launch, said: "It was a good show," but steered clear of commenting further on Rowley not speaking. Most of the speakers addressing the launch were new faces to politics, such as: Annwarie Ramkissoon who is contesting Princes Town; Patricia McIntosh, Port-of-Spain North/St Ann's West; and Laurel Lezama, Arima.