Arima MP Pennelope Beckles has refused an offer by Prime Minister Patrick Manning of a diplomatic posting in lie of running for re-election.Manning had hoped to move Beckles out of political lineup to make way for a new person, Laurel Lezama, who served as a PNM senator in the 9th Parliament.
Beckles told the Trinidad Guardian she informed Manning that she will not accept the offer and remains committed to serving the people of Arima.
She added that she has the support of her constituency executive.
The executive stated in a news release that it re-emphasises "our unanimous support and unwavering support for MP Pennelope Beckles-Robinson as our nominee and candidate for 2010 general elections," adding that "our position remains unchanged."
It said it wants Beckles as their representative because they are "extremely satisfied with her performance". The executive said it hopes Manning would respect their wishes.
The party is resisting the nomination of Beckles stating that she has fallen out with key people in Arima, including the mayor and that she has moved her constituency office to an inconvenient location.
Manning also expressed grave concern over Beckles' support for Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
At a conference in Port of Spain last month, Beckles said, "I am quite certain she (Persad-Bissesssar) can do the job. My expectations are high for her but we as women, if you want to walk the walk, then you need to give your support."
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