by Linda Straker
The New National Party (NNP) has named 10 of the 15 constituency caretakers as it continues preparations for general election constitutionally due in 2018.
On Tuesday, the party named caretakers for St George’s North East, St Andrew’s South East and St Andrew’s South West, St John and Carriacou. A few weeks ago caretakers were announced for St Patrick’s East (Pamela Moses), St George’s South East (Gregory Bowen), St George’s South (Nickolas Steele), Town of St George (Peter David) and St Andrew’s South East (Emmalin Pierre).
Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell gave the assurance at a recent public meeting that the 2nd batch of caretakers will be named by the middle of June. A statement from the party said that the decision to name the caretakers was taken following an executive meeting of the party late Monday.
The only new face is 34-year-old lawyer Kindra Maturine-Stewart, named as the caretaker for Carriacou and Petite Martinique. The statement said that she was nominated to take the work of the party going forward, now that long-serving MP Elvin Nimrod and Deputy Political Leader Elvin Nimrod is retiring.
“I am humbled, and it is a great honour to be given the opportunity to help lead the work of the party in Carriacou and Petite Martinique,” she said. According to the statement, Maturine-Stewart has been a young champion for the rights of children and women in particular.
“We have a great foundation in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. There is a vibrant party structure and widespread support in the community. People there understand that NNP is the only real choice to continue to build on our gains,” she said. “While I am selected to lead the work, it is not just about me, but the team we have put together to go forward.”
The decision came days after party leader and Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell had a very successful meeting with the party’s constituency group and party supporters in Carriacou on the weekend.
Senators Norland Cox and Simon Steill – who are also under consideration – attended the meeting and said they are excited to work with Stewart now that the standard bearer has been chosen. “We have been spoilt for choice, and either way this is a big victory, and we can now build on the work of MP Nimrod going forward,” Steill said.
The 10 named reflects an equal number of men and women to date. The party is expected to name the final batch of 5 in the coming weeks.
