Moonilal on EMBD resignations: Stay put, I’m intervening

Housing, Land and Marine Affairs Minister, Dr Roodal Moonilal, yesterday sent a text message to deputy chairman of the Estate Management and Business Development Company (EMBD), Steven Broadbridge, asking him to delay his resignation. “Stay put, I am intervening,” Moonilal told Broadbridge in an early-morning text message, aimed at halting the promised resignations.

Broadbridge said three members of the EMBD board submitted their resignation letters yesterday to the Minister of Food Production, Devant Maharaj, and Moonilal. It is unclear if they have been accepted. Broadbridge said his move to quit was halted temporarily, pending discussions with Moonilal, which were scheduled for today. President of the Agricultural Society, Dhano Sookhoo, and Dr Ian Khan Kernahan were also among those who have resigned.

Sources said it was unlikely any of the members who resigned would reconsider as they may have difficulty working with the chairman, Krishendath Joe Ramkissoon. Board members have expressed concern over a lack of information about matters relating to the board, including the rental of land by the EMBD.