Derek Achong
Oilfield Workers' Trade Union (OWTU) President General Ancel Roget has followed through on his threat to sue former prime minister Dr Keith Rowley for defamation.
Roget announced the filing of the case against Rowley over a Facebook post made on August 29, 2022, in a press release issued by the OWTU earlier today.
The release said Roget took the decision after Rowley failed to accede to his lawyers’ request to retract his statement.
"Since Dr Rowley has failed to retract his statement as requested in a pre-action protocol letter dated 29th August 2022, this lawsuit seeks to vindicate Comrade Roget's reputation, obtain a full retraction and apology, and pursue appropriate damages for the harm caused," it said.
The post referenced in the release allegedly accused Roget and others of seeking to block two lanes of a highway.
The exact words used cannot be republished, as doing so could also constitute defamation.
"This post falsely attributed criminal behaviour and irresponsible leadership to Comrade Roget and attempted to associate him with unlawful conduct and political subversion," the release said.
"Comrade Roget has taken strong exception to the implication that he, in his capacity as a Trade Union leader, orchestrated or endorsed acts of illegality or sabotage that endangered public order and national security," it added.
The release also claimed the damage caused by Rowley's comments was worsened because of his position as prime minister.
"Statements of this nature from someone in such a powerful position not only amplify misinformation but also incite public distrust and hostility toward those who advocate on behalf of workers' rights and democratic freedoms," it said.
Roget is being represented by Kiel Taklalsingh and Joahanna Richards of Sovereign Chambers.
