Manning on Panday’s resignation:

PRIME MINISTER Patrick Manning has described the resignation of UNC founder/chairman Basdeo Panday as “a time of sadness.” Manning yesterday said he intends to telephone Panday sometime today to chat with the former prime minister.

Panday, who tendered his resignation to the Opposition party on Monday morning, cited his recent conviction in court under the Integrity in Public Life Act as the main reason behind his sudden resignation from the party.

The resignation has been viewed as the political demise of Panday, who lost the Opposition Leader’s position as well as his seat in Parliament as the parliamentary representative for Couva North.

Speaking to reporters during a site tour of infrastructural works at Waterloo Village yesterday, Manning described his “political opponent” as a “master” politician. “He always added colour to the deliberations of Parliament,” Manning added.

Manning said, “It was a little time of sadness last night after I learnt that he had not appeared at the meeting and that his daughter had read a letter that he had resigned the position as chairman. No doubt, he has resigned from active political life from TT.” Saying he felt a degree of sadness in his heart on Panday’s deteriorating health, Manning said, “I propose to call him sometime today or tomorrow to talk to him.”

Asked if he thought it politically wise for Panday to bow out completely from active politics, Manning said, “In politics you take it as it comes. Today, tomorrow, you have to face whatever comes your way and deal with it.

“Mr Panday is a politician who has served long and hard for the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago and while I have not shared his views on many things, I would defend his right to express those views.”