The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

SEVERAL familiar political faces are expected to vie for the chairman’s post at the FNM convention next month.

Phenton Neymour, Brensil Rolle and Michael Pintard are all expected to nominate themselves for the position.

Mr Neymour, former State Minister for the Environment, confirmed to The Tribune yesterday that he is strongly considering running for the post.

However, he noted that the November 21 convention date, which was decided on last week, has complicated his decision making process.

“I personally did not expect the convention to be called as quickly as it has, but because it has been called this quickly I have to consider my family and time involved in that position,” he told The Tribune.

Mr Neymour was responding to questions about rumours that he will vie for chairman.

“There’s a number of FNM members who have asked me to consider the position which I am considering right now,”  he said.

He added: “I have been asked by (people in) high ranking positions in the FNM to run for that position. I have previously considered that position, as I have publicly stated, but I have not come to a firm conclusion on whether to contest it again. The demands being placed on a chairman are considerable. The FNM needs a chairman that will bring our people together, that will prepare the troops for the next general elections. Those tasks would require considerable work and attention, but I will make my position known in short order.”

When asked his thoughts on the snap, one-day convention, he said: “I think it is an extremely small time frame.

“I understand the pressures of those involved in leadership. It’s a short time to launch a campaign not only for leadership, but for other positions. I think it’s critical to allow individuals to express what they’re bringing to the table and to address relevant issues. The chairman is a serious position. I’m actively pursuing the position, but it’s only best that I address it internally first.”

FNM Deputy Chairman Brensil Rolle and Senator Michael Pintard are also rumoured to be vying to become FNM chairman.

When asked about this yesterday, Mr Rolle, the former parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Housing, said he has not made up his mind.

“I haven’t made a determination,” he said. “I am focused on getting the branches ready, particularly Family Island branches for convention. I may remain in the same position I am in now. I’m focused on getting the associations ready for convention so we could move forward and make the election a success.”

Mr Pintard declined to comment directly on the rumours about him. However, he told The Tribune he will make an announcement later this week pertaining to a possible run in one of two positions he is considering.