Manning returns tonight

A big welcome has been planned for former prime minister Patrick Manning when he returns to T&T tonight. However, Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley and PNM general secretary Ashton Ford are not expected to be at the airport to welcome him home.

Ford, in a telephone interview yesterday, said the national executive was not involved in the homecoming ceremony. Ford said the PNM was not officially informed of Manning’s return but it was happy for his recovery and return. Ford said Manning had served the country well and PNM members were free to attend the event. Manning is expected to arrive at Piarco International Airport shortly before 10 pm after spending the past five months in Washington, DC, undergoing physiotherapy for a mild stroke he suffered on January 24 at his San Fernando home. From early yesterday supporters and members of Manning’s San Fernando East constituency started to mobilise for today’s return. Another meeting, involving all constituency groups, is expected to take place today to finalise all preparations for his return.

 

A release issued from the constituency under the authority of the Manning family said Manning had completed his therapy in and was preparing to return home to continue his therapy locally. The release added: “The gains have been tremendous and we are deeply appreciative of all the support that has been proffered throughout this challenge. “We continue to pray for his safe return and ask the nation to continue to keep him in your prayers.”  From early yesterday morning Manning’s supporters posted on their Facebook walls invitations for citizens to be at the airport to show their support for him. Some called in to radio stations expressing their joy at Manning’s expected return. Sources in the San Fernando East constituency said members and supporters were expected to go to Piarco in maxi taxis to celebrate his recovery and return. Manning remains T&T’s longest serving MP, having entered Parliament since 1971. He was initially given three months’ leave of absence in February from Parliament by Speaker Wade Mark which was later extended in May for another three months.