Dharamlall denies “malicious” rape allegations
Former Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall has denied what he described as “malicious” allegations by a woman.
In a statement released to the media in response to a press conference held by the victim on Friday, Dharamlall stated, “I wish to categorically and most vehemently deny each and every one of the allegations made by [victim’s name withheld].
He added, “For some while hitherto, I was privy to rumours that [victim’s name withheld] was making unsavoury comments in relation to me, but I made a deliberate effort to ignore them.”
The victim, during a virtual press conference on Friday, recounted two incidents of alleged sexual assault and rape in 2020 and 2021, respectively, by the former Minister.
Dharamlall acknowledged knowing the victim personally for several years and claimed to have maintained a civil and cordial relationship with her, including socialising on many occasions.
However, he alleged that the victim’s demeanour towards him changed after he rebuffed her advances and spurned her attempts to engage in an intimate relationship.
“Thereafter, [victim] embarked on a campaign to malign and tarnish my reputation. This was manifested through several fake profiles on social media, surreptitious leaks of information to the traditional media, and a whisper campaign to anyone willing to listen.”
The former Local Government and Regional Development Minister questioned the timing of the victim’s allegations, stating, “It really begs the question as to what has reignited this quest by [victim] to sully my good name, particularly at this time.”
To this end, Dharamlall said he has engaged and instructed his Attorneys-at-Law to review the victim's statements with a view to instituting legal proceedings against her and other persons associated with “propagating these alleged falsehoods.”
Only last year, Dharamlall was accused of raping a 16-year-old schoolgirl. However, the girl had told the police that she wanted no further action in the case. Following that, Dharamlall resigned as a Minister of government.
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