By Joey Bartlett
Housing Minister David Lee intends to appeal a recent High Court ruling, challenging its legal basis. While he maintains the decision does not establish his guilt or prove the allegations against him.
In a public statement issued November 9, Lee said the judgment concerned legal procedure. He warned against presenting it as a finding of criminal guilt.
“I have not been found guilty of any offense,” Lee said. He added no court had determined the allegations against him were proven.
The dispute follows a preliminary inquiry conducted over four days in April 2025. According to Lee, the proceedings considered evidence from 19 witnesses and 29 witness statements.
Acting Chief Magistrate Christine Charles subsequently discharged him. Lee said she found the prosecution’s evidence inherently weak.
He added the magistrate considered the evidence insufficient to support a conviction. This assessment was made even if the prosecution’s evidence was accepted at its highest.
However, the Director of Public Prosecutions subsequently applied to the High Court. Lee said the application was filed on the final day permitted by law.
He alleged he received no notification or opportunity to be heard. He also said a warrant was subsequently issued for his arrest.
According to Lee, no reasons were provided for departing from the magistrate’s findings. He questioned the legality of the procedure used in the application.
His attorneys have advised the procedure relied on repealed legislation. Specifically, they identified the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act, 2011, as raising legal concerns.
Lee said his legal team believes the matter raises questions about natural justice. These include his right to be heard and procedural fairness.
He acknowledged the authority and independence of the judiciary. However, he disagrees with the latest High Court decision.
Lee said his attorneys identified substantial grounds for an appeal. He also said they considered the prospects of success favourable.
He has accepted their advice and intends to pursue available appellate remedies.
The minister also criticised what he described as misleading political commentary. He maintained that public scrutiny must remain grounded in established facts.
He stressed procedural rulings should not be portrayed as criminal convictions. He also emphasised the presumption of innocence and equal protection under the law.
Lee said the proceedings would not distract him from his ministerial responsibilities. He pledged to continue addressing housing needs and expanding homeownership opportunities.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to constituents in Caroni Central.
Lee insists his public record should not be defined by allegations. He maintained he would continue serving while pursuing every lawful avenue available.
His statement did not indicate when the intended appeal would be filed.
