PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Dr Amery Browne has withdrawn from the race to represent the People’s National Movement (PNM) in the Diego Martin West constituency for the upcoming general election.
The seat will soon be vacated as the incumbent, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, is retiring from active politics.
Browne’s decision to withdraw from the candidacy race was communicated in a letter dated January 17, addressed to the constituency.
“Upon consideration of further advice, I have decided to withdraw my name from the Diego Martin West nomination process. I therefore revoke consent for nomination for the Diego Martin West constituency,” Browne wrote.
While he did not elaborate on what influenced his decision, he affirmed his commitment to the PNM’s success in the upcoming poll.
“I fully support the PNM Party and am completely committed to our best outcome in the upcoming elections. Thank you for your kind consideration, and I extend gratitude and sincere best wishes to you and the entire constituency team.”
Browne’s withdrawal comes amid reports of mounting support for one of the six candidates seeking to win the seat held by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley since 1991.
Broadcaster Hans Des Vignes had reportedly secured endorsements from nine party groups in the constituency. At the same time, Browne and the other contenders, including PNM executive members Curtis Toussaint, Yokymma Bethelmy, Lesidi Felix, and Anna Suleiman, had not received any backing.
Browne had expressed his interest in running in the constituency just a week ago, in a January 10 letter in which he emphasized his “resolute patriotism” and “unwavering commitment to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.”
“You can be fully assured that I would fulfill all related duties and responsibilities with integrity, fairness, diplomacy, respect, and relentless hard work and dedication…all attributes that would make the constituents of Diego Martin West and their families very proud,” his letter stated.
and then 