Disgruntled members of the Opposition People's National Movement (PNM) are intensifying their calls for party leader and former Prime Minister Patrick Manning to resign. Manning led the PNM into a humiliating defeat at the polls in Monday's snap general election, which was called more than two-and-a-half years before it was constitutionally due. The People's Partnership, led by former Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, won 29 of the 41 seats, while Patrick Manning's PNM won 12, losing key stronghold seats in the process.
At a meeting of PNM candidates on Tuesday Manning proposed two different people hold the office of political leader and Opposition Leader. Manning's plan called for political newcomer, Diego Martin Central MP Dr Amery Browne, or Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert, to be appointed political leader while he was appointed Opposition Leader. As Opposition Leader Manning would choose the six Opposition Senators. But party sources said they would like Diego Martin West MP Dr Keith Rowley to be appointed interim political leader.
The controversial plan is to be discussed at today's special meeting of the party's general council. Yesterday PNM constituency executives met in emergency session to discuss the plan. They have agreed to present a resolution at today's meeting expressing their strong objection to it. The resolution calls for Manning to step down immediately and an interim leader appointed pending the calling of a special convention shortly to elect a new political leader. The Port of Spain South constituency executive is expected to present the motion to reject Manning's plan today.
Sources say Browne lacked experience, having served less than three years as an elected Member of Parliament. Party insiders say Manning's plan was similar to one implemented by former Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday when he remained as political leader while Kamla Persad-Bissessar was appointed Leader of the Opposition. Manning has been political leader of the PNM since 1987. He has served as Prime Minister from 1991 to 1995 and from 2001 to 2010.