Jagdeo cautions Ramsaran for “distasteful” remarks

By Devina Samaroo

Former President and People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Executive Bharrat Jagdeo joined his Party colleagues in condemning the behaviour of Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran for his remarks against rights activist Sherlina Nageer.

“First of all, personally I think it should have never happened, it was very distasteful, and we should never say anything about anyone, particularly a woman…,” Jagdeo told media operatives during a press conference at Freedom House on Wednesday.

Nageer and Dr Ramsaran were on Monday involved in a very heated confrontation outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court, Berbice during the hearing of a case against Jagdeo brought by accountant Christopher Ram.

Reports indicate that Nageer rudely interrupted the Minister while he was being interviewed by two reporters. The activist was heard being loud and provocative towards the Minister, after which he responded with disparaging comments. He, however, recognised he had erred and issued a public apology via a press release to the media later that day.

The former President noted that he recognised the Minister’s explanation of the untimely situation, but nonetheless affirmed that Dr Ramsaran was wrong to respond the way he did. “I gather Bheri Ramsaran said he has apologised for this … he claimed he was provoked … but in spite of that, he should not have said anything of that nature,” Jagdeo made known.

While on the topic, the former President took the opportunity to clarify the allegations surrounding him and his ex-wife, Varshni Singh. “I saw they said that I beat my wife…let me make it clear to everyone … I have never physically abused a single woman in my entire life, including my ex-wife…so that is clear…,” he pointed out.

Noting that he cannot speak on behalf of the PPP/C on the situation, Jagdeo disclosed that it was in the Party’s practice to condemn any disparaging remarks against women, especially if it was done in a way that seemed sexist.

Imprudent conduct

Meanwhile, the former President is not the only official from the PPP/C camp who raised concerns about the Minister’s remarks. Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper issued a press release to the media on Wednesday condemning the Minister for his imprudent conduct.

“The remarks made by Minister Bheri Ramsaran are unacceptable and an affront to women. I condemn his utterances in the strongest possible manner. It is yet another example of how much more needs to be done in ensuring that women are treated with respect and dignity especially by the exemplars of our society,” the release read.

The statement went on to point out that this incident was not an isolated case. “It is symptomatic of the way our society can still be at times despite the huge strides we have made in advancing the rights of women.

“It reinforces my own personal intention and commitment to championing the cause of the vulnerable in our society,” the release concluded.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand also took to social media to express her dissatisfaction with the conduct of the Minister. Similarly, Jagdeo had noted his hopes that the media and the general population would respond with the same vigour in condemning similar behaviour expressed by anyone against another person.