Victoria’s Local Government Minister Nick Staikos has joined calls for newly elected Wyndham City Council mayor Preet Singh to permanently resign after it was revealed he had provided a character reference for a child sex offender.
Wyndham councillors released a joint media statement declaring that Singh was “unfit” to lead and demanded that he permanently resign.
“I was actually quite sickened when I read the mayor’s character reference for that individual,” Staikos said. “I think the mayor should step down permanently.”
“He has not only demonstrated a clear lack of judgment, but none of his colleagues want him to remain there.”
Staikos said he had long been concerned about leadership at Wyndham City, but these recent developments brought the issues to a head.
This comes after Staikos announced a council monitor would be appointed to “restore stability in leadership and ensure good governance.”
“I am deeply concerned by the ongoing instability in leadership at Wyndham City Council,” Staikos said. “The ratepayers and residents deserve a council that is entirely focused on them… That’s why I will appoint a monitor to assist Council to restore stability in the leadership and ensure good governance.”
Singh’s character reference was provided for friend Kashyap Patel, who pleaded guilty to child grooming, transmitting indecent communication to a person under 16 years of age, and one charge of sexual assault of a child who he met online.
Singh wrote that he had known Patel for “nearly 13 years,” and that they were “good friends,” and he said “I truly believe he is extremely regretful for what he has done. This perhaps has been a very tough time for him and his family.”
Singh publicly apologised for writing the letter and announced he would temporarily step down saying, “I understand the distress and concern this situation has caused in the community.”
“The character reference I provided was given prior to my election, I recognise that, regardless of timing, this has raised legitimate questions about Judgement. For that, I am deeply sorry,” Singh said.
“My commitment remains to serve the Wyndham community with integrity, and to work every day to contribute to a safer and stronger community.”
The deputy mayor will act in the mayoral role while this matter is considered.
Source: Herald Sun
