She told supporters: “Today we are united in our feelings of shock, dismay and sadness; not only for our leader but for Trinidad and Tobago.

“We must not become combat weary.

“We must not let all the sacrifice and lifelong struggle go in vain.

“This is the time, now more than ever, for us to unite as a people and stand up,” Mikela urged.

The young attorney said there was not much more she could say at such a difficult time.

“It is a difficult time for anyone to go through. I spoke to my father; he is in good spirits.

“He is looking well and he sends his love and told me to tell you to keep courage and that goodness and truthfulness will prevail.”

She also advised supporters to keep strong and stick together.

Panday’s only surviving brother, Subhas Panday, an attorney-at-law said he was hurt by the conviction.

Panday (S) said he could not say why Chief Magistrate Sherman McNicolls handed down such a harsh conviction to his brother.

“This was not murder or manslaughter or kidnapping.

It was failing to declare assets; he did not steal it from anyone or committed a robbery.

“He was treated like a criminal,” added Panday (S), who recently had heart surgery and is recuperating.