PNM prays for Franklin Khan so ‘charges could disappear quickly’

The convention’s proceedings were chaired by vice-chairman John Donaldson.

Addressing the hundreds of PNM members who gathered at the Convention Centre, Donaldson boasted that the PNM had always "set the template for good behaviour for persons in public life."

"Even the fact that I address you today as vice-chairman reflects the principled behaviour of the PNM. Even when it hurts we act responsibly," he said.

The vice-chairman said he supported and prayed for his colleague and hoped that the charges he (Khan) faced, would "disappear quickly" so he could return to party and national business.

Khan, the Member of Parliament for Ortoire/Mayaro, is facing six charges of misconduct in public office.

According to Donaldson, one of the many challenges faced by the PNM was the newest phenomenon of "ghost parties." These parties, he said, were characterised by non-disclosure of membership, agenda and finances and fooled people into thinking that they were non-political and independent. He warned party members to be wary of these "disguises of new political growth."

Describing the recent budget as a renewed hope for families, Donaldson said it was deliberate of the Government to target its expenditure at strengthening families.

Regarding the issue of national security, Donaldson said despite Government’s attempt to ensure the security of citizens and visitors, some of the same factors which have contributed to the national growth and development have also made major contributions to the increase of criminal activities in Trinidad and Tobago.

Despite this, he said, in keeping with the convention’s theme, it was the PNM’s responsibility to contribute to the strengthening of families, the empowering of communities and the enrichment of national lives.

Donaldson said yesterday’s convention was historic because it was the first time the PNM had met in convention since the introduction of the five new constituencies.

Following Donaldson’s address, delegates flocked to the voting area to cast their votes for the positions of lady vice chairman, assistant general secretary, treasurer, elections officer, educational officer, public relations officer, field officer, youth officer (male), youth officer (female), party welfare officer and operations officer.