Manning resigns as PNM leader

Former prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Patrick Manning has resigned as leader of the People’s National Movement (PNM), three days after he led it to defeat in the May 24 general election.



PNM Chairman, Conrad Enill, says the party will hold a special convention on June 27 to elect a new leader.



In the interim, Dr. Keith Rowley, the Diego Martin West representative, will act as Opposition Leader in the new Parliament.



Rowley is one of the longest serving PNM legislators.



Enill told reporters that the General Council, which met on Thursday to discuss the 29-12 defeat in the general election, accepted Manning’s letter of resignation.



In his letter, Manning said he will support the new leader and Enill said the Council thanked him for his 23 years as leader of the 54-year-old political party.