PNM Laventille East/Morvant asks not to turn backs on Leonce

There was silence yesterday from People’s National Movement’s leadership on appeals from Laventille East/ Morvant officials and members to give MP Adrian Leonce the time and support to work out his personal issues so he can continue as their MP.

Some top Laventille East/Morvant officials who said Leonce is one of PNM’s strongest representatives and an example of what leadership should look like, told the party, “… Now isn’t the time to turn your back on one of your own! Stand with Adrian Leonce and the people of Laventille East Morvant.”

This, after Leonce didn’t turn up for Monday’s screening of PNM nominees. He’s cited personal issues affecting him and his family which he has to sort out, and that he can only serve until term’s end. Yesterday, however, he also said he hoped he could still be chosen as the candidate if he is able to sort out his issues before the next general election.

The PNM screening committee has, however, called for new nominations by December 20.

The constituency executive has made it clear they want nobody but Leonce and have no nominations to send.

Yesterday, top constituency officials added, “People cried today … Now isn’t the time for the PNM to turn its back on Adrian Leonce. His is a name synonymous with hope and transformation here. Born and raised in the humble community of Pitch Road, Morvant, he knows the struggles of the people he serves because he’s lived them.

“From walking hills, drinking water from standpipes, and stoning mangoes, he embodies the spirit of the Laventille community. He’s a success story—a qualified engineer who, despite his achievements, remains grounded and connected to his roots.”

Officials said since becoming MP in 2015, Leonce has demonstrated “humility, accessibility, and unwavering dedication to constituents – a rare gem in politics, consistently going above and beyond to assist those in need. Not a single person can honestly say they’ve had a negative encounter with him. He’s a breath of fresh air—a representative who truly cares, advocates passionately, and inspires hope in a way the constituency had never experienced before.”

They added, “He’s inspired countless young people, including those at risk of falling into crime … he’s converted many young men to choose better paths. … His approach is reminiscent of the late, great Morris Marshall… Adrian Leonce, the ‘poor people’s governor,’ is the future of the PNM, a beacon of hope, and example of what leadership should look like.”

“So why, then, is the PNM considering turning its back on him? Why reopen Laventille East/Morvant nominations when the general election isn’t yet upon us? Why not give him the time and support he needs to address personal matters?” they added, noting Leonce proved himself one of PNM’s strongest representatives.

Queries sent to PNM leader Dr Keith Rowley and officials Stuart Young, Faris al-Rawi, Foster Cummings, Jennifer Baptiste-Primus, Camille Robinson-Regis, Patricia Alexis and others went unanswered yesterday.

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