Sexual misconduct allegation against Minister Dharamlall: “Anyone who breaks the law must bear the consequences” – Women and Gender Equality Commission

…NTC calls for independent, impartial investigation

In light of the damning sexual misconduct levelled against Government Minister Nigel Dharamlall, the Women and Gender Equality Commission related that anyone who breaks the law must bear the consequences.
The Commission in a release to the media stated that it supports the action taken by the Government to have “the latest incident involving Minister Nigel Dharamlall, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development thoroughly investigated.”

The Commission further stated that there is an urgent need for the elimination of the culture that permits bad behaviour. “We must insist that those who make the laws are mandated to uphold them at all times. Anyone who breaks the law must bear the consequences of their action.”
In addition, the missive added that men in society, who hold positions of power should be held to account for their actions, especially those that lead to the oppression and victimisation of women and young girls, in particular those who come from less privileged circumstances.
“Women, especially girls, should not be treated in a way that denies their humanity and violates their rights. Every citizen has the right to defend themself against any type of violation. The advent of social media and technology empowers any victim to expose within minutes any violation of their rights.”
Further the Commission stated that patriarchy and its offensive and violent consequences in Guyana have been addressed in our laws, not least the Sexual Offences Act and our Inheritance laws that are on the books to give voice to victims of these brutish and unlawful practices.
As such, persons in society, especially in the social, economic, and political spheres who use their privileges to exploit or oppress those whom they see as below their real or perceived authority must take warning.
“Patriarchy exists in all forms of social structures – in families, in schools, in workplaces, in financial institutions and exists in all positions of power that are male-dominated.”
The Commission thinks that much work has been done by decision-makers at all levels, in Government, civil society, and community-based organisations, women’s organisations and groups across the country to empower women to speak up for their rights and to report when there is an infraction against their rights.
“This culture that allows for the violation of women’s human rights must come to an end. It is not business as usual. Enough is enough,” the release stated.

National Toshaos Council
The National Toshaos Council has also called for an independent and impartial investigation into the “deeply distressing allegations of rape” made against the Minister.
The NTC explained the establishment of an independent and impartial investigative body that will operate with the highest standards of transparency, objectivity, and professionalism.
The body stated that this incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained efforts to address gender-based violence and protect the rights of Indigenous girls and women in Guyana.

“We call upon the Government to prioritise the implementation of robust policies, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives that promote gender equality, combat violence against women, and empower Indigenous communities.”
The Council also calls for experts who are experienced in handling cases of sexual violence to be brought on board to ensure the rights of the victim are protected.
Dharamlall is presently being investigated by the Police following a letter purportedly penned to President Dr Irfaan Ali by an Indigenous teen who give a detailed report that she was allegedly raped and sodomised by the Minister.
Days after the information became public on social media, the Minister had written the President requesting that he be sent on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. This was approved by Dr Ali, who informed the media that the Minister at the centre of the investigation has proceeded on leave.
The Minister has since denied the allegations and has retained Senior Counsel Nigel Hughes to defend him. He was subsequently arrested and released on $1 million bail. The teenager, who had stated that she was used as a political pawn, is being cared for by the Child Care and Protection Agency.