PORT OF SPAIN– Leader of the main opposition United National Congress (UNC) Kamla Persad-Bissessar has called on supporters to remain focused following the recent arrest of former attorney general Anand Ramlogan and UNC senator Gerald Ramdeen.
“Let justice take its course with respect to former and present colleagues of ours. Let not your hearts be troubled. I don’t want to prejudice any matters that are before the court. But we know those fellas are very good lawyers,” said the former Prime Minister in an address at the National Women’s Arm of the UNC on Saturday.
“I have already said it, I find the timing of these things are very suspicious. I am reminded that every time election is near, the same things happen. Seven UNC members were charged just before the 2002 elections. I want you to clear your brain and stay focused on the real enemy,” the opposition leader said.
Ramlogan, who was detained at the Piarco International Airport last week, will appear in a magistrate’s court on Monday after he was granted TT$1.2 million (One TT dollar=US$0.16 cents) bail late Friday .
Police have also charged opposition legislator, Gerald Ramdeen, who was granted TT$1.5 million bail.
Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard directed that the men be jointly charged with conspiracy to contravene Section 3 of the Prevention of Corruption Act; conspiracy to contravene Section 45 of the Proceeds of Crime Act and conspiracy to misbehave in public office.
The corruption-related offences arise out of an alleged conspiracy to financially reward themselves with fees from legal briefs from the State. (CMC)
