HIGHGATE, St Mary – In a rare appearance on the political platform since retiring from representational politics in 2002, former Member of Parliament for St Mary Western, Terrence “Terry” Gillette has thrown his support behind People’s National Party (PNP) leader Mark Golding and Omar Newell, who is hoping to bring St Mary Central home for the PNP in the next general election.

“I have heard of you, party leader, from my family members and friends who had met you. They have only good things to say about you and now I have the opportunity to meet you face to face,” said the 87-year-old who is now a deacon in the Roman Catholic Church.

The former state minister for construction (works) and agriculture under prime ministers Michael Manley and PJ Patterson was also the deputy chief parliamentary whip.

Gillette, who was one of the speakers at the St Mary Central constituency conference last Saturday night, told Comrades that Golding possesses the attributes and qualities needed to lead not just the party, but the country.

Addressing Golding directly, the politician-turned-man of the cloth said, “You are a man of integrity who was born into privilege, therefore [there is] no room for dishonesty.”

In contrast, he questioned the integrity of some other parliamentarians. He also spoke of Golding’s lineage and how, in his view, it has shaped his character.

“I knew your father; he was a gentle soul who had a big heart for the people,” Gillette said to Golding, adding that these were traits the PNP leader had inherited.

He also spoke of Golding’s success in the financial world and how he could use this experience for the benefit of more Jamaicans.

“This man can put two and two together and make everybody get something,” Gillette said of the man who he insisted can get the country back on track.

Turning his attention to Newell, Gillette was equally effusive in his assessment.

“When he came to me and told me that he is the aspirant for the constituency I listened to his plans and aspiration for Central St Mary, and I was impressed,” he said of Newell who he described as someone whose humility and willingness to consult others will ensure that he is an effective leader.

Newell threw his hat in the ring after Morais Guy indicated, after 21 years, that he will not seek re-election. On Saturday Gillette warned supporters that they are expected to put in the work to ensure the party retains St Mary Central and Golding becomes the country’s next prime minister.

“It’s not about noise [or] music to make you feel good at the moment, but it’s about going into every lane, every yard, and every street, and to get all the Comrades out to vote,” he urged.