Dear Editor,
I am forced to write again about the allegations of rape and sodomy levelled against Mr. Nigel Dharamlall, while holding public office as a Minister of Government.
Editor, I have carefully analyzed the contents contained in a Press Statement released by the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 after public protests, and wish to state that I am disappointed but not necessarily surprised. As alluded to in my June 17, 2023 the FBI or Scotland Yard should be requested to investigate this matter before the evidence becomes further compromised.
Editor, given my own experiences, and those of others already referred to by previous letter writers and commentators, it appears that Mr. Dharamlall, like some of his colleagues in the PPP/C, is being given special treatment by the DPP. Mr. Dharamlall is yet to be charged for these serious allegations despite the preponderance of information provided in support of the accusation.
Editor, now that the file is back with the Police, it is my hope that the matter will be treated with the urgency it deserves and returned to the DPP for immediate action. The complainant must not be further victimized by being locked away for an extended period because of the “inefficiency” of the Guyana Police Force and the DPP. She must be able to urgently receive psycho-social support in a suitable environment to help her on her long journey of recovery from this trauma.
Therefore Editor, as a believer, a Social Worker, a Community Leader, a Member of Parliament my appeal through this letter to every woman, whether parent, guardian or otherwise and civil organisations, is to continue to stand in solidarity with this brave sixteen-year-old. Mr. Dharamlall must be made to face the full brunt of the law for this alleged crime and our children be assured of their protection by the state. He must be removed from public office.
My final call is to my fellow female Parliamentarians on the Government side Ms. Gail Teixeira, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Ms. Priya Manickchand, Ms. Oneidge Walrond, Ms. Sonia Parag and Ms. Susan Rodrigues to call on Mr. Ifraan Ali and Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo to dismiss Mr. Dharamlall.
Meanwhile, as I continue to take a stand with others, I pray for my beloved country, Guyana! I will lift mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121.
Truly,
Annette Ferguson, MP
