Former prime minister Patrick Manning yesterday celebrated 40 years of service as MP for San Fernando East. In a posting on his facebook page, Manning said he became the longest-serving MP in T&T's history yesterday. Manning said he had served as MP for 40 years without interruption. He became MP for San Fernando East in 1970 during the no-vote campaign. The People's National Movement (PNM) won all 36 seats contested in that election as Opposition parties did not nominate candidates.
"It has been a most satisfying experience. I could not have chosen a better career," Manning added.
He said he served as prime minister for 12 years, spanning four terms, which included a six-month term following the 18-18 deadlock in the 2001 general election. Manning said he chose politics in an attempt to uplift the nation and not for personal fame or fortune. He said: "Options were available, but I took the deliberate step of entering politics for the betterment of our nation." The former prime minister added: "I have never seen politics as an avenue towards personal fame and fortune. It has always meant the upliftment of the people of T&T." Manning thanked the PNM, youths of the nation and his constituents for allowing him to serve over the past 40 years. The PNM was removed from office one year ago when Manning called general election more than two years early. He said the PNM should look forward to holding the reins of power in due course. Manning said he would have "much more to say in the coming months."