The People’s National Movement is fully mobilised for the upcoming General Election, with its slate of candidates now complete and ready to contest all 41 seats.
On Monday, the party successfully screened and selected Marisha Alvarado as its candidate for Tabaquite. Alvarado’s selection completes the PNM’s lineup, ensuring they are now fully prepared to contest every seat in the upcoming election.
Speaking to reporters at Balisier House on Monday evening, PNM Chairman Stuart Young stated: “The battle lines have been drawn, and the PNM has joined the battle, once again leading at the front.”
PNM General Secretary Foster Cummings also announced that the party will reveal all 41 candidates on Sunday.
“The General Council received the report from the Central Executive, and, as a result, has convened a Special Convention for Sunday, the 16th of March, which is Sunday coming, at City Hall, Port of Spain, and that Convention will be called to order at 10am, at which time these 41 candidates will be presented to the Convention, the Special Convention, which, of course, is the highest body, decision-making body of the party.”
Sunday is expected to be Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley’s last day in the post. Mr. Young responded to questions on whether Dr. Rowley will also step down as Political Leader at the Convention.
“The pocket hasn’t changed as yet. So let us wait, and we’ll see, as you all have been following as it unfolds, every step of the way, no hiccups on our part. So we’ll wait and see. Let’s get to Sunday. Let’s get to the 16th. The Political Leader and Prime Minister will tell us on the 16th, and then we’ll see what happens thereafter.”
Both PNM Executives dismissed rumours of controversy within the party, insisting there’s no cause for concern—despite what critics may suggest.
Mr. Young said: “We have no controversy here, and we’re quite satisfied and happy with how things unfold. I see, I see you all pointing at my colleague, the General Secretary, here. And, as you will see from the list of candidates for La Horquetta/Talparo, we have absolutely no concerns. I can say here now, as the Chairman, as Minister Cummings’ colleague, as he has served as General Secretary, and knowing the individual, absolutely no concerns.”
Following the Special Convention from 10am on Sunday, the PNM will then hold a Presentation of Candidates to the national community from 2pm in Woodford Square.