Rowley could be in big trouble if he votes against PM in confidence motion: Imbert

The PNM appears to be threatening Keith Rowley and has suggested that the former cabinet minister could "get himself in some trouble" and risk disciplinary action.

There is talk that Rowley might vote with the opposition when the House of Representatives debates a no confidence motion in prime Minister Patrick Manning.

Rowley has become one of Manning's most vocal critics and is seen by many people in the governing party as a successor to Manning.

Government House leader Colm Imbert told the Trinidad Guardian he agreed to have the debate after Easter because his party has planned a function on March 27 honouring PNM founder Dr Eric Williams.

The motion can only pass if all UNC MPs and six PNM members vote against Manning.

Last week deputy Speaker Pennelope Beckles made it clear that while she recognized and endorsed the opposition leader, it does not mean she would vote against Manning.

It's the second time that the opposition has brought a no confidence motion against Manning. Imbert told the Guardian that he expects PNM members to again vote for the leader and defeat the motion.

“It would be a very serious situation if a PNM MP voted for a motion of that nature, since a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister is a motion of no confidence in the Government," he stated.

“Any sitting MP of the PNM Government...who votes for such a motion is declaring his lack of confidence in the PNM Government because the consequence of a successful no confidence motion involves two options for the PNM.

“And those options are: Call a general election or resign. It is, therefore, very serious and for any PNM MP who votes for it, the situation could lead to disciplinary action.

“So in my opinion, I cannot see MPs loyal to the PNM party voting for this motion because then they will know they just better leave the party.”

Commenting on Rowley specifically, he told the Guardian, "I hope he does not go too far.” He said he would not be surprised if Rowley speaks out during the debate but "if he votes with the Opposition on the motion that’s a very serious matter.”

Rowley’s Diego Martin West constituency has passed a similar motion against the PNM political leader. That matter will now go before the party's general for possible consideration on Saturday, the Guardian reported.