NATIONAL Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds has announced his decision to step back from elected politics, withdrawing his nomination for the Laventille West seat for the upcoming general elections.
This was confirmed by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley during a post-Cabinet press conference on Thursday.
While Hinds was present at the Cabinet meeting, Rowley stated they did not discuss his decision. “I don’t have additional information but I think it’s been confirmed that Mr Hinds will not be continuing to offer himself as a candidate for his constituency,” Rowley said.
When asked if he influenced Hinds’ decision, Rowley denied any involvement, expressing slight disappointment. “I am not entirely surprised. I am a little bit disappointed because Mr. Hinds has been with us for a long time. He has been a very loyal, hardworking MP.”
Rowley added, “There comes a point sometimes when you come to a crossroads and you have to make a decision. I too have a family, and I know how these things go.”
Hinds’ decision follows a recent People’s National Movement (PNM) Laventille West Women’s League meeting where attorney Kareem Marcelle received 106 votes compared to Hinds’ 78. This marked an improvement for Hinds from a previous meeting in October, which showed overwhelming support for Marcelle but was later annulled due to irregularities.
Hinds retains support from the Youth League and a majority of party groups within the constituency.
Hinds has been Laventille West MP since September 2015. Before this, Hinds was elected Laventille East/Morvant MP for 12 years since 1995.
