Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath has affirmed that the resignation of former Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) acting CEO Jeevan Joseph has not disrupted the state utility’s operational continuity or strategic initiatives. In an official statement, Padarath emphasized that WASA maintains robust leadership under chairman Roshan Babwah and continues to advance numerous short-term and medium-term projects without interruption.
Contrary to initial media speculation suggesting Joseph was ‘sent on leave’ without explanation, the minister clarified that Joseph voluntarily resigned between November 28-29 citing personal reasons. The ministry respects his decision while maintaining confidence in WASA’s operational framework.
Padarath highlighted organizational enhancements including the revamping of the ministry’s monitoring and evaluation division to strengthen project oversight. ‘The ministry is taking greater interest in actual operations compared to our predecessors,’ he noted, signaling increased governmental involvement in WASA’s management.
Dain Maharaj, acting director of corporate services since June, has assumed interim CEO responsibilities until a permanent appointment is finalized. Maharaj’s previous appointment followed the termination of Keithroy Halliday and nine other senior executives shortly after the United National Congress assumed office on May 28.
Joseph’s tenure included significant contributions as manager of technical services for wastewater systems, where he pioneered development of standard operating procedures, asset management strategies, and technological innovations to improve both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.