Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Keith Rowley, has confirmed that Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Stuart Young, has been selected by the Parliamentary Caucus of the People’s National Movement (PNM) to succeed him as party leader.
This decision follows Dr. Rowley’s announcement that he will not seek re-election and will resign before the upcoming general election, scheduled for later this year.
Speaking after the PNM Caucus’ retreat in Tobago, Dr. Rowley expressed confidence in the transition. “We as a Caucus … discussed at length and in the end came up with a situation where the entire PNM Caucus is in support of Member of Parliament for Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West, Stuart Young. We are very pleased to announce that the promise of a smooth transition is going to plan,” he stated.
Rowley elaborated on Young’s selection, explaining, “Minister Young was one of the two people who offered themselves, and Minister Young came out with the most support. Minister Young has been in government going to 10 years. I have seen him at work on very many detailed and technical assignments, and he has not only done the job but has distinguished himself.”
Dr. Rowley also acknowledged that other members of the Cabinet could have been contenders but emphasized Young’s qualifications. “I have no doubt that his experience, his dedication, and commitment will ensure that during the period that he has the responsibility for being Prime Minister, he will continue to put the people of Trinidad and Tobago’s interests first,” he said.
Young has had an extensive career within the PNM, beginning as a temporary Opposition Senator in 2014 before being elected Member of Parliament for Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West in 2015. Since then, he has held several ministerial roles, including Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Minister of Communications, and Minister of National Security, earning a reputation as a dependable and skilled leader.
In December 2022, Young was elected Chairman of the PNM. His current role as Minister of Energy and Energy Industries began in 2021 after the passing of Franklin Khan.
The other candidate for party leadership was Minister Penelope Beckles-Robinson. Dr. Rowley assured the nation that the leadership transition is proceeding smoothly, though he has not announced a specific date for his resignation.
Reflecting on his time in office, he stated, “I know I didn’t please everybody every time, but I believe … we made some improvements and would have … served the country … when it was time to talk about the next term … I had no problem saying it was time to leave the party.”
The PNM’s leadership transition is expected to be finalized soon, with Stuart Young poised to take over and lead the party into the next phase of governance.
