(Trinidad Guardian) President of the Agricultural Society of T&T (ASTT) Dhano Sookoo has admitted to throwing a shoe at one of her directors who allegedly threatened her with a glass bottle over a disagreement over remuneration. The incident, which took place on August 30 in the presence of other directors at the ASTT’s Chaguanas office has prompted director David Paponette to report the matter at the Chaguanas Police Station on September 7.
On Friday, Paponette said the shoe-throwing incident took place after a verbal exchange between himself and Sookoo over the cutting and withholding of his remuneration since June. “This verbal exchange climaxed when Dhano assaulted me with her high-heeled shoes. There were several people present, including members of the board who had to physically restrain the president.”
Paponette said Sookoo then chased him out of the office. “I am deeply saddened by the amount of abuse I have had to undergo as one of the youngest members of this board…” Paponette is president of the Valencia Farmers’ Association. In defence, Sookoo said Paponette wanted to be paid for days he did not attend meetings, which she was not in agreement with.“He gave no reason for his non-attendance. I am not going to break the rules for anyone.”
A director’s monthly remuneration, including travelling is $5,500. There are 26 directors on the ASTT board. However, Sookoo offered to pay Paponette $2,500 for July and his full numeration for August. Sookoo said she received a call from the office that Paponette was demanding that he be paid. “When I arrived at the office I had a casual pair of shoes in my hand which I had intended to put on, but did not get an opportunity to do so because of the drama he was creating.”
At that point, Sookoo said, she saw Paponette with a glass bottle in his hand, which he kept tossing from side to side. “He kept attacking me saying that I was a mouthpiece for the Government and was not representing farmers.” Sookoo said she begged Paponette to leave, but he refused to listen.
“His threats intensified and I pitched the shoe at him when I saw him raise the glass bottle to throw at me.” Sookoo said the shoe did not come in contact with Paponette, who left the office right after.
