Members of the public sign condolence books for Khan

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Twelve days after the former Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Franklin Khan died, condolence books have been set up at several locations across both islands so that the public can express written sympathy messages.

Gazing at the picture of the man who held the portfolio as Energy Minister up to the time of his sudden demise on April 17, Elizabeth Henry said, “He would be truly missed.”

Signing the condolence book at the Woodbrook office of the Port-of-Spain South MP Keith Scotland earlier today, she added, “This is a deep loss for the constituency and the party.”

Describing Khan as a “very faithful and hardworking member,” Henry said, “We will continue to do what needs to be done and apart from missing him, we express condolences to his family.”

Condolence books have been set up at various locations including San Fernando; Chaguanas; Sangre Grande; Point Fortin; Tunapuna; Mayaro; Moruga; and Tobago.

Apart from the book at Scotland’s office, the PNM has said a second book will be set up at another location within the Port-of-Spain district from Monday.

Khan had the dubious honour of being the first politician in Trinidad and Tobago to be indicted for corruption while his party the People’s National Movement was still in power.

In 2005, Khan was indicted on corruption charges, all of which were dropped five years later.

He served as Minister of Works and Transport from 2002 to 2005, and as Member of Parliament for Ortoire/Mayaro from 2002 to 2007.

In 2015, he was appointed as the Minister of Rural Development and Local Government; and in 2016, he was appointed as the Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, a position which he held up to his passing.

He leaves to mourn his wife Laura and two children.

It was common knowledge that Khan was a long-time heart patient, having undergone a procedure in February 2017.

Originally from Guayaguayare, Khan underwent another medical procedure in April 2020.

Among the portfolios Khan has held are:

Minister of Energy and Energy Industries – August 19, 2020 – Present

Minister of Energy and Energy Industries – October 31, 2016 – August 9, 2020

Minister of Rural Development and Local Government September 11, 2015 – October 30, 2016

Government Member – May 4, 2005 – September 28, 2007

Minister of Works and Transport – October 15, 2002 – May 13, 2005.