Politics
Former Prime Minister Manning rejects Trinidad & Tobago’s highest honor
Former Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago., Patrick Manning. PHOTO/Reuters
Trinidad & Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has described as “unfortunate” the decision of former prime minister Patrick Manning not to accept the twin-island nation’s highest national award.
According to Persad-Bissessar, she had nominated Manning and another former prime minister, Basdeo Panday, for the Order of Trinidad & Tobago in recognition of their contribution to the socio-economic development of the country which celebrates its 52nd anniversary of political independence from Britain on August 31.
“Whatever differences we may share politically the award sought to honor Mr. Manning for his decades of service as a Parliamentarian. It was meant to be a gesture of magnanimity and a moment to reach beyond the issues that divide us to acknowledge his many national contributions.”
But in a statement, Manning, 68, the longest serving legislator, who served as head of government on 2 occasions said the primary reason for declining the award was based “firmly in my principled stance to not accept any Trinidad & Tobago awards while serving as a member of parliament.
“Kamla Persad-Bissessar was able to win government on May 24th 2010 through a series of sustained and vicious attacks on my character that was led personally by her. These attacks continue. Through this nomination announcement is the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister retracting those venomous accusations and charges against me?”
Manning said he only found out about the nomination via social media and press reports, adding “I was made aware of this nomination through persons who saw it reported on the social media, Facebook.
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar said “it is regrettable that in rejecting the nomination, Mr Manning should seek to politicize the matter. “His comments run against the grain of what was a well intended gesture. The concept of recognizing the long and dedicated service of men and women who committed their lives to the people of Trinidad & Tobago must also been seen differently as we grow and mature as a nation.
