PNM picks Mayaro, Naparima candidates

CLINT CHAN TACK

THE ruling PNM has chosen two more general election candidates. But the party was unable to select a candidate for its stronghold constituency of La Brea, where former minister Robert Le Hunte has been a contender.

After a marathon screening session at the party's south regional office in San Fernando which started at 3 pm on Saturday and ended after midnight, PNM officials announced businessman Bunny Mahabirsingh and attorney Randy Sinanan as its candidates for Mayaro and Naparima respectively.

For La Brea, the PNM screened 13 nominees. But party officials said after careful consideration by the full executive and the screening committee, none was considered acceptable.

The La Brea constituency executive was asked and agreed to continue its search. The executive is to report back to the screening committee on June 20.

On Saturday, PNM vice-chairman Robert Le Hunte said he has no intention of bowing out of politics.

Le Hunte, who resigned as public utilities minister last month, has been rejected by the committee as a nominee for La Brea.

He said the question of bowing out does not arise because he is vice-chairman. While he was considered the favoured nominee for La Brea, Le Hunte said he has no problem with the party asking for a wider search for nominees.

The PNM will screen nominees for the Arima, Toco/Sangre Grande and Lopinot/ Bon Air West seats at Queen’s Hall, St Ann's from 5 pm on Sunday.