Member of Parliament for St John Mara Thompson tonight announced her decision to retire from public life.
In a written statement, she also formally threw her support behind Democratic Labour Party general secretary George Pilgrim to contest the seat in the next General Election.
Thompson took over in a 2010 by-election on the death of her husband Prime Minister David Thompson.
NATIONNEWS was informed that the party’s decision to go with Pilgrim was made just after 9 tonight when the general council of the DLP met at their George Street, St Michael headquarters.
Pilgrim was reportedly given the nod over High Commissioner to London Guy Hewitt, former senator Andre Worrell and former consul general to Toronto Dr Leroy McClean.
This nomination means the DLP now has a full slate of 30 candidates.
Pilgrim, previously contested two general elections and a by-election, and lost thrice in his bid to secure the St Thomas seat. (SDB Media)
Below is the unedited text of Thompson’s statement.
I wish to inform the country and more precisely the people of St. John of my decision to withdraw from active politics. I have taken a long hard look at myself and the needs of my family and I have decided to retire from public life.
Just as I walked throughout the constituency and sought the support of the people of St. John when I wanted to become their MP, I am walking around in St. John, knocking on doors thanking the good people of St. John for their support for me over the years. I intend to do so face to face. They will see me. I will continue to visit each home because I want to thank you.
As I contemplate the last 8 years, I reflect on the passing of my beloved husband David J.H. Thompson and the ensuing grief that engulfed me and my family. But we were cradled and buoyed by the people of St. John. They swept me into Parliament, giving me the very distinct honour of becoming their Parliamentary representative.
I consider myself blessed to have been afforded the opportunity to serve my party and my St. John family. I am truly grateful to the people of St. John. There has been no greater privilege than to serve them. St John, I will always Love You.
I now publicly throw my support behind and endorse the long serving General Secretary Mr. George Pilgrim. George Pilgrim has been in and around St. John for many years now working on behalf of my late beloved predecessor David Thompson, working with Families First and working with me.
Just as I did for my late husband in terms of the constituency, I intend to do for George.
Thank you.
Mara