People’s Progressive Party (PPP) executive member and former Minister, Nigel Dharamlall, has found himself embroiled in yet another sexual assault allegation; the second within a year. This time, the allegation has drawn the attention of international media.
During a virtual press conference today, where the accuser, Sarah Aneesah Hakh bravely shared her story, international media outlet CNN was present to witness the unfolding events. CNN, also known as Cable News Network, is a global news organization renowned for its comprehensive coverage of world events and breaking news stories. As Hakh detailed her allegations against Guyanese politician Nigel Dharamlall, CNN captured the gravity of the situation, bringing international attention to the politician’s trail of accusations.
Hakh accused Dharamlall of assaulting her in 2020 and 2021. In detailing her allegations, she said the first incident occurred during a business meeting when Dharamlall held a senior ministerial position. She recounted her experience, expressing her disbelief that Dharamlall remains a member of the ruling People’s Progressive Party despite the accusations.
The fact that he is still in that party is mind-boggling to me,” Hakh said.
As detailed in the CNN report, Dharamlall was recently appointed to the executive committee of the PPP and was recently photographed with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.
This latest controversy follows Dharamlall’s resignation last year over separate rape allegations by an indigenous teenage girl, which he also denied. Although the girl withdrew her claim, concerns regarding the handling of the case by authorities persisted, with some speculating about government corruption.
CNN reported that Hakh’s decision to come forward publicly underscores her determination to support other victims and challenge the culture of silence surrounding sexual violence. Despite her initial reluctance to file a police report due to fears of corruption and public shunning, she eventually filed a report on May 9 and also lodged cyberbullying charges against Dharamlall on May 8.
In highlighting that her bravery in speaking out serves as a beacon of strength for victims of sexual violence,she stated, “I need to give victims the strength to know that they’re not alone, and that there is no shame in what happened to them.”
In response, Dharamlall vehemently denied the allegations, claiming they were part of a campaign to tarnish his reputation. He asserted that Hakh’s demeanor changed after he rejected her advances, leading to false accusations against him.
CNN has reached out to Dharamlall for comment and has contacted the Guyanese police for further information regarding the allegations.
