Howard Campbell, Gleaner Writer
A section of the large crowd of Portia Simpson Miller supporters who turned up for Saturday's People's National Party Special Delegates Conference at Jamaica College, Old Hope Road, St. Andrew. - RUDOLPH BROWN/CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
PRIME MINISTER P.J. Patterson may have announced the results of the People's National Party (PNP) presidential race shortly after 6:00 p.m. yesterday, but Venice Isaacs knew from as long as two weeks ago that Portia Simpson Miller would become the party's fourth leader.
"I dream it, an' whatever I dream it come true," said Ms. Isaacs. "I see har (in the dream) dancing and I say to someone, 'yuh know is Portia gwine tek it over'."
Ms. Isaacs, 41, says she travelled all the way from (East Central) St. James to cast her vote for Dr. Peter Phillips, Mrs. Simpson Miller's main rival in the contest. But, she said a victory for the Local Government Minister would not have disappointed her.
"I guess the people want somebody they feel can manage," she said.
Winnifred Stoddart, 52, is also a Phillips delegate from East Central St. James. She called victory for Mrs. Simpson Miller early yesterday when she saw the overwhelming support for her.
According to Ms. Stoddart, the PNP's executive needs more persons like Mrs. Simpson Miller who seem to care for the 'small man'.
"They've allowed things to go too low with the workers of the party; they are helping people who can do without it," she said. "She's from the grassroots, she understands when somebody says they are hungry."
