The following is the full statement issued by Former Local Government Minister Nigel Dharmlall:

“I have taken note of an event styled ‘Press Conference’ held on the 10th May, 2024 by Sarah Hakh, in which certain very malicious allegations were leveled by her against me.

From the outset, I wish to categorically and most vehemently deny each and every one of the allegations made by the said Ms. Hakh therein.

For some while hitherto, I was privy to rumours that Ms. Hakh was making unsavory comments in relation to me, but I made a deliberate effort to ignore them.

I have known Ms. Hakh personally for several years and have always maintained a most civil and cordial relationship with her, including socialising on many occasions.

Her demeanour towards me changed fundamentally after I rebuffed her advances and spurned her attempts to engage in an intimate relationship.

Thereafter, Ms. Hakh 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.

It really begs the question as to what has reignited this quest by Ms. Hakh to sully my good name, particularly at this time. Her latest attempt bears testimony to this.

I have already engaged and instructed Attorneys-at-Law who are reviewing the statements made by Ms. Hakh, with a view of instituting legal proceedings against her and other persons associated with propagating these falsehoods, as may be necessary.