‘NEXT ROUNDS IS MINE’ - KAMLA WANTS TO LEAD UNC

“The next rounds when you see the political leader position becomes vacant, I intend to put my nomination in the hat, I will run for it,” she promised UNC supporters at a mass meeting at Debe Junction, Penal on Thursday night in support of UNC chairman, Basdeo Panday, denied bail Monday after he was found guilty of breaching the Integrity in Public Life Act.

Persad-Bissessar, a deputy political leader, also stated that the only reason for not contesting the post at last October’s internal party elections was due to Panday’s anointing of Dookeran.

“The only reason I didn’t put that nomination dey to fight you, was because I respected Mr Panday decision as I respect it today. And if I had put that nomination in, I would have been the political leader today,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar who was supposed to have met with Dookeran to discuss the fragmented party leadership which once again reared its head since the conviction of UNC chairman and former prime minister, Basdeo Panday said the conflict in the UNC had to come to an end to ensure the party’s survival.

“One day we will have to make some very harsh decisions, the time will come when we must say we must cut our losses, we must go forward with those who are willing to go forward, and if you are not willing to go forward you must not hold us back,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar, who was escorted to the podium by members of the party’s womens league which included Senator Jennifer Jones Kernahan and executive committee member, Daphne Phillips, declared her allegiance to Panday and revealed that a “Freedom rally” would take place from Rienzi Complex to the Golden Grove Prison tomorrow if panday were not granted bail the next day.

Panday was denied bail following Monday’s conviction that carries a two-year jail sentence, $60,000. in fines and ordered to repay some $1.6 million to the State.

Panday supporters have slammed Chief Magistrate Sherman Mc Nicolls’ decision to not grant bail to the former Prime Minister and have organised a number of solidarity meetings for Panday.

Also attending the Debe meeting was deputy political leader, Austin Jack Warner and Oropouche MP, Dr Roodal Moonilal.