Manning tells his delegates to boycott Sunday's PNM internal election

Flashback: Manning and Rowley in a recent walkabout in San Fernando East

Patrick Manning has advised delegates of his San Fernando East constituency to "sacrifice" their vote and "abstain" in Sunday's internal party election of the People's National Movement.

The former Prime Minister, who led the PNM until his ouster following his defeat in the 2010 general election, has represented San Fernando East since 1971. The constituency has the largest blocs of delegates among the 41 constituencies and its withdrawal from the process would reduce the electoral turnout.

Constituents are loyal to Manning and are likely to follow his suggestions.

Chairman of San Fernando East Tina Gronlund-Nunez confirmed that delegates have been advised not to vote. "We are in a precarious position," she said.

Gronlund-Nunez said the votes from Manning's constituency could determine who sits on the new executive and it would not be fair for the former political leader to be choosing a new political leader's executive.

"The party groups were advised about this situation and they have the option of going out there and voting and have San Fernando East and the former political leader accused of once again interfering with the future of the party or to stand down and allow the other 40 constituencies to decide who should be the new executive," Gronlund-Nunez added.

However she stressed that Manning did not give any directive and insisted that there is no malice intended.

"There is no undermining of the democratic process at all, at all, at all. It is plain and simple—he has suggested to his delegates that it may be better if they "sacrifice their vote and abstain this rounds".

The Trinidad Express reported Friday that its sources have said if the delegates from Manning's constituency don't vote on Manning's advise it could be interpreted as interference by Manning in the election.

Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley does not agree with Manning's position. He told the Express delegates represent people and should not be encouraged to boycott the election.

Rowley said what is happening in San Fernando East makes the case for the abolition of the delegate system in preference to a one member/one vote system. He said the current delegate system "is being used and manipulated for strange agenda". 

Read related story:Rowley, Manning embrace during walkabout; Rowley declares PNM "healed"