Wyndham city mayor Preet Singh temporarily stands down after providing character references for a sex offender
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A newly elected mayor in Melbourne's west has stepped back from the role as scrutiny intensifies over a character reference he provided for a man later convicted of child sex offences.
This morning, Wyndham mayor Preet Singh publicly apologised and confirmed he would temporarily stand down, less than two weeks after taking office.
The decision comes after it was revealed Singh wrote a reference in 2024 for Kashyap Patel, who was at the time facing charges relating to the grooming and sexual abuse of a teenage girl.
Mr Singh's exit means that Wyndham City has cycled through three mayors in just over a month. Wyndham City Council
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The letter was written before Singh entered council, but its contents only surfaced publicly this week, prompting mounting calls for his resignation.
In a statement shared to social media, Singh acknowledged the backlash and apologised for his actions.
"The character reference I provided was given prior to my election, I recognise that, regardless of timing, this has raised legitimate questions about judgment. For that, I am deeply sorry.
"I sincerely apologise for any hurt or harm caused, particularly to the victim and those in our community impacted by this issue."
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Residents have organised a protest outside Wyndham's council offices in Werribee this evening, as anger continues to build within the community.
"I respect the right of community members to express their views, including through peaceful protest," Singh said.
"I am reaching out to offer to meet with those leading the demonstration, to listen and convey my sincere sympathies directly."
Councillor Jasmine Hill has stepped in as acting mayor while the situation unfolds.
Singh has not indicated how long he intends to remain on leave from the mayoralty.
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