Bérenger Resigns Over ‘Corruption’ and ‘Gang of 5’ Allegations

Paul Bérenger has resigned as Deputy Prime Minister, citing rampant corruption and the influence of a so-called “Gang of 5” within the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) as primary catalysts for his departure.

Speaking from his Riverwalk residence in Floréal on Wednesday, 25 March, the leader of the MMM delivered a scathing assessment of the current administration, stating, “the beast is rising”, in reference to the scale of graft he claims to have witnessed.

Allegations of Bribery

Paul Bérenger detailed specific instances of misconduct, alleging that a Labour minister approached him regarding a bribe offered by an individual linked to a “gang of 5 or 25” operating within the PMO.

According to Bérenger, a businessman was brought to the minister to facilitate the illicit payment.

The former Deputy Prime Minister confirmed he reported the matter to the Prime Minister.

He further noted that while the individual involved initially lost their position at the PMO, they have since been reinstated.

The Ravatomanga Affair

The resignation also brings the “Mamy Ravatomanga” case back into the spotlight.

Mr Bérenger claimed that a recorded telephone conversation exists involving a person within the PMO discussing the collection of money related to Ravatomanga.

He alleged that when this recording was brought to the Prime Minister’s attention, the Premier dismissed the evidence as “artificial intelligence.”

When questioned by reporters on the scale of the scandal, Bérenger remarked:

“There are many millions at stake in this Mamy affair.”

The leader of the MMM remains firm that these systemic integrity issues made his continued role in the government untenable.

Source: Defi Media