Rape allegation against Govt Minister: Conduct thorough, unbiased investigation – GAWL to Police

…as PSC “fully” supports decision to place complainant in protective custody

Following the allegations of rape made against Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall, the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) and the Private Sector Commission (PSC) have called for a full and fair investigation into the matter, in accordance with the rule of law.

“GAWL condemns all acts of sexual violence, particularly against women and children. A Minister of Government is appointed by the people and for the people, and should at all times serve the people. Those who wield this power are not above the law,” GAWL stated in a press release.
Further, the collective called on the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and all relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation while upholding their primary objective – to serve and protect.
“GAWL also urges the public not to peddle speculation and misinformation that could
pervert the course of justice and result in further damage to the complainant. This
includes the circulation of photographs and images of the complainant,” the statement read.
Echoing these sentiments, the PSC noted that they would continue to closely monitor all proceedings, and have encouraged individuals to allow the legal system to work in the interest of justice to all parties involved.
“The Private Sector Commission welcomes and endorses the fact that the allegation of rape by a government minister is now subject to investigation by the police in accordance with the rule of law. The PSC is pleased that our democracy is alive and well, and that the rule of law is being followed,” the PSC’s statement read.
“The PSC fully supports the action taken by the government to ensure the safety of the young woman involved by having her in protective custody while the matter remains under investigation,” they added.
Since the allegations by a 16-year-old girl surfaced on social media last week, the GPF launched an investigation to assess the facts of the claim, while the victim is being kept in the care of the Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s Child Care and Protection Agency (CC&PA).

Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes, who is representing Minister Dharamlall, shared with another section of the media that investigators on Tuesday visited Dharamlall’s house, where the alleged rape occurred.
The minor victim reportedly took investigators through the house, explaining what transpired while the Minister waited outside.
Dharamlall, who has denied these allegations, was arrested on Monday after presenting himself at the Brickdam Police Station. He was subsequently placed on $1 million station bail.
According to a statement from his retained law firm: Hughes Fields and Stoby, the Minister remains willing and disposed to assist in a full investigation.
He is currently on administrative leave, having requested this in order to facilitate the investigations into the allegations.