Former Senator Primus Resigns From PNM
Former Trinidad and Tobago senator Ndale Primus has officially resigned from the Peoples National Movement, stating the political party has drifted from its founding principles. Primus, who joined the party in 1999, emphasized that his departure follows years of reflection rather than an isolated political dispute. He confirmed that he will remain politically independent and focus on community service and youth engagement.
Former senator Ndale Primus has resigned from Trinidad and Tobago's People's National Movement (PNM), declaring that the longstanding political institution has lost its way and moved away from its foundational principles. Primus, who joined the party in 1999 and served two terms in the Senate between 2004 and 2010, submitted his formal resignation letter to PNM General Secretary Foster Cummings.
He stated that his departure was the result of years of personal assessment regarding the party's direction, internal culture, and performance, rather than an immediate reaction to any single controversy. Reflecting on his decision, Primus noted that core tenets such as interracial harmony, solidarity, and prioritizing the common good over personal ambition are no longer reflected in the modern party.
He explained that successive political cycles appear to have drawn the organization further away from the vision originally established by party founder Dr. Eric Williams and continued by former leaders George Chambers and Patrick Manning. The resignation comes amid visible internal tensions within the party, including public disagreements surrounding constituency leadership in San Fernando East.
While Primus acknowledged these disputes as indicators of broader challenges within the organization, he stressed that his exit was motivated by a widening gap between the party's present practices and his own values. During his time in active politics, Primus held several senior roles within the PNM.
In addition to his service in the Upper House, he served as chairman of the National Youth League, sat on the party's General Council and Central Executive, and ran as a parliamentary candidate in the 2010 general election. Although he stepped back from frontline political office in 2012, he had maintained his financial membership and supported party initiatives behind the scenes.
Primus made it clear that his departure does not signal an intention to join another political organisation, such as the United National Congress. He stated that his primary commitment remains public service rather than the pursuit of office, and he plans to continue contributing to society through independent civic work, non-governmental organizations, and youth development initiatives.
Primary source: VINO