San Juan/Barataria election opponents meet

UNC Barataria/San Juan MP Saddam Hosein met on Thursday with his former election opponents Jason "JW" Williams (PNM) and Albertha Purdeen (PEP).

Hosein, a former opposition senator, defeated Williams and Purdeen to retain the seat for the UNC in the August 10 general election. The seat was formerly represented by the UNC's Dr Fuad Khan, who chose not to stand for re-election.

A statement issued by Hosein's constituency office said the three met at Hosein's office on Thursday. The statement said the meeting came "after a very hard campaign."

The statement also said Hosein, Williams and Purdeen spent time discussing ideas and sharing plans "for the betterment of Barataria/San Juan."

Hosein later told Newsday, "I have pledged that I am willing to work and represent all the people of Barataria/San Juan regardless of their race, religion or political affiliation."

He added, "There is strength in unity. There is no greater time than now to heal our country."

Photos of the trio meeting were posted on Hosein's Facebook page.

When contacted, Williams said, "Yes we all met up today: Albertha from PEP, Saddam and myself.

"When I called him (Hosein) the day after elections to congratulate him, we both wanted to meet up after to discuss the elections and to keep the cordial energy we had while in Senate."

Williams and Hosein served as government and opposition senators respectively in the 11th Parliament, before it was dissolved in July ahead of the election.

Williams said he remains committed to serving the PNM and the people of Barataria/San Juan.

"Most definitely. My commitment to the area remains. I'm in touch with my councillors, Jodi Johnson, Kimberly Small and Kwesi Antoine, and I look forward to any way I can assist them."

Purdeen could not be reached for comment.