Trinidad & Tobago: Former Prime Minister Patrick Manning retires from politics

The former Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago, Patrick Manning, is retiring from politics.

Manning, who failed to show up for screening by his People’s National Movement (PNM) party on Wednesday, wrote to his political leader Keith Rowley, giving reasons for his decision.

Weakened by a stroke suffered in January 2012, Manning said his health has not improved sufficiently and as a result will bow out of politics.

“I still however trust the Almighty to fully restore my health in His time” said Manning, who has represented the San Fernando riding since 1971.

Manning was supposed to be one of 6 nominees to be considered when the PNM’s screening committee met at the party’s office in San Fernando. Instead, he contacted members of the constituency executive to disclose that he was withdrawing.

The candidate that will replace Manning is attorney/businessman Randall Mitchell.

Manning, a geologist by profession, was the country’s fourth prime minister, who served from 1991-95 and 2001-10. -(CMC)