Former PNM leader Patrick Manning has called on the Opposition PNM to be as "speedy, enthusiastic and determined" in holding the Government to account in the same way PNM members responded to a T&T Guardian report about his appearance in a recent party caucus.Manning was replying yesterday to "shots" fired at him by PNM colleagues following his appearance at PNM's Parliamentary caucus on Monday.
Manning attended the caucus for the first time.He took the opportunity to express concerns on the perception about so-called "tight" PNM and Government relations and possible distrust that may arise, within the public, from that.PNM sources said Manning had pointed, as an example, to a front page picture in Monday's T&T Guardian of PNM MP Donna Cox hugging Government Minister Jack Warner.Cox subsequently strongly disagreed with Manning, saying her allegiance to the PNM could not be questioned. PNM public relations officer, Faris Al Rawi, also voiced the party's support for Cox in the issue.
Yesterday, in a statement, Manning said: "I am very impressed by the speed, enthusiasm and determination with which members of the Opposition handled the newspaper report on the deliberations of last Monday's PNM Parliamentary caucus.He added: "I would like to see similar qualities being brought to bear in holding the Government to account."It will do the PNM the world of good. Let it not be said that such an approach is utilised only in treating with the member for San Fernando East." See Page A24