Former Minister Simona Broomes has raised concerns about the trafficking of young girls, particularly indigenous girls in Guyana’s interior regions. In an exclusive interview with Village Voice News, she highlighted the vulnerability of these girls and the urgent need for action to safeguard their well-being. Regarding the recent allegations against Nigel Dharamlall, Broomes called for specific measures, including the recusal of Minister of Social Protection Vindhya Persaud, an investigation led by the Acting Head of the Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA), and adherence to established protocols.
Former Minister Broomes emphasized how indigenous girls become targets of exploitation due to their vulnerability arising from various factors, including their living conditions, limited exposure, and the influence of individuals with power and resources. These girls often find themselves in unfamiliar environments, and perpetrators prey upon their naivety and lack of support networks. Broomes shed light on the critical age range of nine to 16, with a particular focus on girls between 12 to 15 who are especially susceptible to manipulation and coercion.
The former Minister drew attention to the tactics employed by individuals in positions of power to groom and exploit vulnerable girls. She shared the distressing allegations of the young lady who was allegedly manipulated by a government minister offering support for a pageant, only to become a victim of sexual assault. These incidents underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive response to combat such predatory situations.
Broomes urged Minister Vindhya Persaud to recuse herself from the investigation, emphasizing the importance of impartiality. She suggested that the Acting Head of the CPA take charge and only report the findings directly to the Minister after review by the police. Additionally, Broomes stressed the necessity of following established protocols, including conducting clinical interviews through the Child Advocacy Center at the Blossom Center in Region 2. Such steps ensure a thorough and unbiased investigation, prioritizing the protection of victims.
Ms Broomes expressed disappointment in the response of government officials, highlighting the disregard shown towards the alleged victim and the mishandling of the situation and condemned the lack of protection and safety nets for indigenous girls, questioning the government’s commitment to addressing their plight.
It should be noted that former Minister Simona Broomes was recognized for her tireless work in empowering women and girls, both locally and internationally. The Women of Mission International honored her with an award, commending her exemplary contribution to the people of Guyana.
The former minister ended by stating that, “the trafficking of young girls, particularly indigenous girls, demands urgent and immediate attention and robust action.”
