Mitchell sandwiched between Mannings

IN THE end, he was sandwiched between two Manning’s.

That is the position San Fernando East MP and Tourism Minister Randall Mitchell has found himself. Mitchell learned yesterday, that his successor and candidate for the constituency he served for five years, is Brian Manning, son of his predecessor, the late prime minister Patrick Manning.

Upon learning of his removal via the San Fernando East Facebook page, Mitchell, an attorney, sought to bow out gracefully. There was some consternation prior to last weekend’s screening and allegations of rigging the internal nomination process, but in the end Manning prevailed.

In a letter addressed to “my dear constituents,” Mitchell thanked them saying it was the privilege and honour of a lifetime to have served them as MP.

“Today (Monday), I was advised by the screening committee of the PNM of its decision to select Mr Brian Manning, son of my erstwhile predecessor, the late Patrick Manning as its candidate for San Fernando East in the upcoming general election.”

Mitchell congratulated Manning and wished him every success and then thanked political leader Dr Rowley for the confidence reposed in him in 2015 and for the opportunities to serve in the Cabinet in the portfolios of Public Administration, Housing and Tourism.

Mitchell said he is also indebted for the unconditional support of his Cabinet colleagues, supporters and party faithful over the past five years. He said he remains committed to the aims and objectives of the party and a PNM lifetime member.