The replacement for Nigel Dharamlall as the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development will be announced before the end of this week, President Irfaan Ali stated on Wednesday morning.
On July 4, President Ali made known Dharamlall’s resignation. The resignation comes in response to claims made by a teenage girl that the minister sexually assaulted her in December. In light of the accusations, the politician went on administrative leave on June 18. On June 19, he was taken into custody and then released on a $1 million station bail.
The youngster had informed police that she did not want any more action taken in the case, and Dharamlall refuted the accusations. The Director of Public Prosecutions subsequently advised the Police that there was no case to pursue.
The President, speaking at a press conference at his Georgetown office, said he has not considered hiring Dharamlall in another capacity and neither has Dharamlall requested alternative work.
The President said the welfare of women and children is of utmost importance to him and his government and these issues will not be put on the second or third burner. He said he has “complete” respect and regard for women and children.
