Manning makes an about face, will back Rowley for PNM leader

Patrick Manning's open warfare with Keith Rowley contributed to his political demise. The rivalry between the two men started more than a decade ago with Rowley opposed Manning for the leadership of the party after Manning called a snap election in 1995 and lost the government.

In more recent times, Manning fired Rowley from cabinet, accused Rowley of misbehaviour, called him a raging bull and a "wajang" and kept the Diego Martin West MP at a "safe distance."

He reluctantly allowed Rowley to be a candidate in the May 24 election but that didn't save him from political humiliation as Rowley campaign for the PNM, not for Manning.

When the PNM demanded Manning's resignation after the party lost the May 24 general election, the former Prime Minister said he would remain neutral in the leadership conevntion on June 27.

But now he is endorsing Rowley.

According to local media reports Manning's San Fernando East constituency held a meeting last week and wrote a letter recommending Rowley as the “most suitable” party member to lead the party.

The Sunday Guardian quoted top party sources as saying that Manning, together with 156 members, unanimously agreed that Rowley should take the party forward.

The paper said 50 party groups in Manning’s constituency, including the Women and Youth Leagues, pledged support for Rowley.

"The former prime minister feels it is the best cause of action at this point in time. He supports Dr Rowley as the new political leader, and we have all pledged to do the same," the paper quoted the sources as saying.

This development could mean there would be a "coronation" for Rowley. Diego Martin East MP Colm Imbert has been contemplating fighting for leadership but there is speculation now that Imbert will back down.