Trinidad & Tobago: Former PM Patrick Manning returns to parliament after suffering stroke

Former Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago., Patrick Manning. PHOTO/Reuters

After 2 years of being absent from parliament, the Trinidad & Tobago’s former Prime Minister and member of parliament (MP) for the San Fernando East riding, Patrick Manning, has returned to the the House.

Manning, who suffered a stroke in January 2012, has spent the last 2 years recuperating. He had been granted extensive leave on the grounds of medical illness by House Speaker Wade Mark.

Manning’s decision to return to the Parliament was announced via social media.

“Back to work. See you in Parliament on Friday,” the Facebook post said, immediately getting hundreds of likes and comments. Comments such as “Best news for the year!”; “Welcome back my PM”; “De boss is back”; Long overdue”; “My Patos is back”; “Our saviour returns” and “PM for life” littered the social network.

Manning whose health has improved significantly in the past few months is expected to occupy a new seat in Parliament. Concerning his future in politics, Manning has on several occasions indicated that he plans to quit politics at the end of next year’s current term. -(CMC)