1ST OFFICER IS NEW…….. POINT FORTIN MAYOR
It may be seen by many as the fulfillment of a legacy; Kennedy Richards Jr., a Caribbean Airlines Pilot, was sworn in today as Point Fortin’s new Mayor, to lead the 11th Sitting Council of the Deep South Borough Corporation. Richards Jr., who served as Deputy Mayor in the previous council, will become the youngest ever mayor in the history of the Point Fortin Borough Corporation, being 32 years of age. He is the son of deceased Councillor for Hollywood, Kennedy Richards Snr.
The senior Richards, married then to Verna Cayenne-Richards, was regarded by many as the hardest working and most effective Councillor during his time on council. He served three (3) terms from 1995 to 2008 when he passed. Before his passing, he was fondly referred to as “the mayor”, and many voiced their opinion that he was the most fitting person to become the official Mayor of the Point Fortin Borough.
Upon the passing of his dad, the younger Kennedy, was asked by former Mayor Abdon Mason, to get into politics; however, it was not until sometime before the Local Government Election of 2010, he received a call from PNM executive member, Joan Yuille-Williams, who suggested that he attend screening for the seat his father once held. He took up the offer and got the nod to be the PNM’s candidate for the district of Hollywood. He won that election and have been serving his district consistently since then.
The new Mayor attended the Point Fortin ASJA Primary School and then went on to Vessigny Antilles Secondary School where he received 5 CXC O’ Level distinctions in Maths, Physics, Chemistry, English and Spanish, although he now admits, he cannot remember anything much in Spanish. He regrets this, given the influx of neighbouring Venezuelans to our shore. He played cricket with the school team and was appointed captain.
Driven by a passion for aeronautics, at the age of sixteen, even before he acquired a Local Driving Learner’s Permit, the new Mayor attained a student pilot’s license and began flying with Brico Air Services, where he also served as a flight instructor. He attained his Pilot’s Certification with Phoenix East Aviation. A First Officer, flying with Caribbean Airlines for over seven years, Richards Jr. obtained his Captain’s endorsement three years ago, and is expected to move up to rank, soon.
Apart from his professional portfolios, His Worship is the father of three kids; the eldest Kennedy Richards III, his only girl Kaeconara and his baby boy, only 5 weeks old. His wife Sade Richards, recently gave birth to their last son, Kyeson and holds a Bachelor’s degree in education.
When asked what he believes is most needed for his electoral district, Richards pointed out, a Community Centre and sustainable employment. He attributes his decision to enter politics to his dad, who he said was his role model. His love for people and the manner in which he carried about himself, encouraged him (Kennedy Jr.), to become a servant of the people. He said his dad was selfless and if it wasn’t for him, he would not have begun the journey to become the current Mayor of Point Fortin.
Post council, the Mayor plans to pursue his Master’s in Aviation Management.
The motion to select that Councillor Richards be appointed as Mayor was moved by Councillor Leslie Pascal and seconded by Councillor Lyndon Harris. The selection was presided over by Councillor Kwesi Thomas. Alderman Saleema Thomas was elected as Deputy Mayor. During his inaugural address, His Worship broke down and wept as he made mention of his dad and other persons who encouraged him over the years.
He also thanked current Point Fortin Borough Corporation CEO, Mrs. Donna-may Taylor, for the role she played in his development.
A special plea was made by the Mayor for contractors to give value for money.
The ceremony ended with inspection of the Point Fortin Detachment of Municipal Police by His Worship, The Mayor.
Preceding election of the Mayor, the four selected Aldermen for the current council were installed and took their oath of office. (Read Article)
