The President emphasized that the basis for his selection was the constitutional imperative that freedom is founded on moral and spiritual values and the rule of law. What he implied is that Basdeo Panday was weighed in the scales and was found wanting.

The President further implied that Mr. Manning is more likely to uphold these values than Mr. Panday.

Many will condemn these statements but on the scales Mr. Panday and his bunch were the worst this country has ever seen.

The Guardian Editorial said, "Today and tomorrow, when the President's remarks concerning the importance of recognising moral and spiritual values in the person of the Prime Minister sink through, they will be much more than disappointed. Likely they will be angered that Mr. Robinson put these values on the scale and Mr Panday was found wanting."

Many UNC supporters would be angry but the truth of Basdeo Panday's abuses and the corruption in his government is clear for all to see.

An intellectual giant Mr. Manning is not but he certainly was not as corrupt and as arrogant Mr. Panday.

Can Manning do better, I think not but he certainly cannot do worst.

Mr. Panday said he did not know about the two expensive new cars that were purchased for the Prime Minister's use on the eve of the General Elections so he would not have to bother about that now. He will not be using them.

PNM and Manning got a Christmas gift as many will claim but Basdeo Panday worked hard to ensure the gift was delivered.