President says will announce Dharamlall’s replacement this week

President Irfaan Ali on Wednesday morning said he will announce the person to replace Nigel Dharamlall as the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development by the end of this week.

President Ali announced Dharamlall’s resignation on July 4. The resignation follows allegations by a teen girl that she was raped by the minister last December.

The politician proceeded on administrative leave on June 18 in light of the allegations; he was arrested on June 19 and subsequently released on $1 million station bail.

Dharamlall denied the allegations and the teen had told Police she did not want any further action on the case. The Director of Public Prosecutions subsequently advised the Police that there was no case to pursue.

The President, speaking at a press conference at his Georgetown office, said he has not considered hiring Dharamlall in another capacity and neither has Dharamlall requested alternative work.

The President said the welfare of women and children is of utmost importance to him and his government and these issues will not be put on the second or third burner.

He said he has “complete” respect and regard for women and children.