Panday to address UNC anniversary bash

OPPOSITION LEADER Basdeo Panday, will deliver the feature address at the United National Congress (UNC) 14th anniversary celebrations at the Centre Pointe Mall Chaguanas on Sunday.

Several stalwarts of the UNC will also be honoured during the celebrations. Last week, Panday signalled his intention to stand for re-election as leader when the UNC holds internal executive elections in July.  Party sources said it was uncertain whether anyone would challenge Panday for leadership of the UNC and it was unlikely that any challenger would be successful.

Following last October’s general elections defeat to the People’s National Movement (PNM), Panday said he desired to step down as leader and a transition team was established to honour his wishes. The UNC leader reversed his decision following meetings then between former UNC deputy leader Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj and several high-ranking party members. Barataria/San Juan MP Dr Fuad Khan admitted to speaking with Maharaj about the UNC’s political future while top party financier, FIFA Vice-President Jack Warner, refused to comment on reports that he held secret talks with Maharaj.