Incumbent Opposition MP Fitzgerald Jeffrey was rejected by the People’s National Movement's screening committee as a prospective candidate for the 2015 general election, constitutionally due by September. Almost one hour after the 5.45 pm start of the final round of screening at Balisier House, Port-of-Spain, general secretary Ashton Ford told the media that National Gas Company employee Nicole Olivierre was chosen to replace Jeffery.
Jeffery departed in his vehicle soon after, saying: “To God be the glory.” Ford said the nominated La Brea candidates were screened a few weeks ago but the committee requested more time to choose a final candidate. He said the selection was made after consultation with the people of the constituency. Camille Robinson-Regis was also picked for the Arouca/Maloney constituency over incumbent Alicia Hospedales. Ford said the PNM also selected Richard Ragoonanan as its prospective candidate for Couva North. He was the only candidate.
The committee, he said, also selected Alana Webster-Roy to replace Wendell Berkley for Tobago East. Berkley withdrew for personal reasons, Ford said. There was a small, subdued group of supporters outside Balisier House last night. There were no placards expressing support for any of the nominees. Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley chaired the process.
Screening for a Diego Martin Central candidate was the last schedule screening last night. Incumbent Amery Browne was being challenged by the chairman of the Diego Martin Regional Corporation Darryl Smith. Supporters last night said Smith was expected to be given the nod. However, Browne arrived shortly before 8 pm and said he was confident of being chosen. He said he expected the screening to be “fair” and said he did not see incumbency as something negative.