Coun. Russ Wyatt has announced he will not participate in the upcoming vote to remove him from all committees and boards at Winnipeg City Hall. The decision comes after his arrest on a sexual assault charge earlier this month. Wyatt expressed disappointment over the motion, which was introduced by fellow councillors, stating that he believes the process is being rushed without due process.
Wyatt's Response to the Motion
In a statement released on Wednesday, Wyatt said he is 'deeply disappointed' by the move to strip him of his duties. He argued that the council should wait until the legal process has concluded before taking any disciplinary action. 'I have not been convicted of anything, and I deserve the presumption of innocence,' Wyatt said. The councillor has represented his ward since 2014 and has served on several key committees, including the executive policy committee.
Background of the Case
Wyatt was arrested on April 15 and charged with sexual assault following an incident that allegedly occurred in March. He was released on conditions pending his next court appearance. The Winnipeg Police Service has not released further details about the case, citing the ongoing investigation. Wyatt has denied the allegations and is cooperating with the legal process.
Council's Next Steps
The motion to remove Wyatt from his committee assignments was introduced by Coun. Markus Chambers and seconded by Coun. Sherri Rollins. It is scheduled for a vote at the next council meeting on May 5. If passed, Wyatt would be removed from all boards and committees, including the Winnipeg Police Board and the Downtown Development Committee. Mayor Scott Gillingham has declined to comment on the motion, saying it is a matter for the full council to decide.
Wyatt's decision not to vote on the motion means he will abstain from the proceedings. Under council rules, a councillor can choose not to vote on matters that directly affect them. The vote will proceed with the remaining 14 councillors. A simple majority is required for the motion to pass.
Reactions from the Public and Colleagues
The move has sparked debate among Winnipeg residents and political observers. Some argue that Wyatt should be removed immediately to maintain public trust, while others believe he should be allowed to continue his work until the legal process is complete. Coun. Chambers said the motion is about 'ensuring accountability and integrity' at city hall. 'We have a responsibility to the public to act when serious allegations arise,' he said.
Wyatt's lawyer, David Ireland, said his client is 'disappointed but not surprised' by the council's actions. 'Mr. Wyatt will continue to focus on his legal defense and serving his constituents as best he can under the circumstances,' Ireland said. The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of how municipalities handle allegations against elected officials.
As the vote approaches, both sides are preparing for a contentious debate. Wyatt has indicated that he will not resign from his council seat, vowing to fight the charges in court. The outcome of the vote could have significant implications for the balance of power on council and the public's perception of its leadership.
