PM Manning: PNM on course in Tobago

PRIME MINISTER Patrick Manning was convinced he had converted political enemies into PNM believers as the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election campaign reached its climax yesterday. He told Sunday Newsday all the evidence clearly points to a PNM victory in tomorrow’s elections. From around 10 am, Prime Minister Manning spearheaded walkabouts in Bacolet/Mt St George in support of PNM candidate Cynthia Alfred. Manning traversed the entire constituency at breakneck speed with Alfred, Tobago West MP Eudine Job-Davis and other PNM supporters hustling to keep up with him. Ahead of Manning, Community Development Minister Joan Yuille-Williams called on constituents to come out and meet him.

The most remarkable aspect of yesterday’s walkabout was Manning’s interactions with DAC supporters and  former PNM Assemblyman-turned Independent candidate Anthony Arnold who were campaigning in the area. Arnold actually alighted from his vehicle and warmly shook hands with the Prime Minister. Manning told Sunday Newsday: “I think the elections are going very well. We have been campaigning very actively in all of the constituencies. We are very encouraged with the response that we have been getting. “I have walked several areas myself and therefore make my own judgement on the matter. My judgement is that we are doing well and we will win the election.”

In response to DAC claims his presence in Tobago meant the PNM’s campaign was floundering and this was the first time a sitting Prime Minister had actively campaigned in the THA elections, Manning replied: “What it demonstrates is a greater commitment by a PNM Prime Minister. I cannot speak for other Prime Ministers. I can talk about a PNM Prime Minister who is demonstrating great commitment.” Manning spoke with Calder Hall Village Council president Duport Ewing, who claimed he was voting DAC because the PNM had done nothing for Tobago.

“Over time the politicians mature. The politician is no better or no worse from the society from which he comes. We aspire to be different,”  he explained and Ewing appeared to accept the Prime Minister’s views. The PNM’s activities continued apace elsewhere with large motorcades in Roxborough and Plymouth. THA Chief Secretary Orville London held a walkabout in Calder Hall around 4 pm and joined Manning at a public meeting in the constituency at 7 pm.