The Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region 9, Carl Parker is expected to be charged today and processed through the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court for allegations of molestation of women within the region.

Police said he will be charged with Sexual Assault.  A report first surfaced that the REO had sexually assaulted a regional official at the Yupukari Caiman Lodge, Region 9 in June 2016. Since this allegation was raised, the REO has publicly denied the claims and issued a statement in this regard.

It was reported in the media that over 1200 residents of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) had petitioned President David Granger, calling for the removal of Carl Parker who they accused of discriminatory practices and “unprofessional misconduct.”

The petition, dated April 11, 2016, was sent to President Granger on April 13, 2016, and copied to several Government Ministers and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The document details some 13 accusations against Parker, including sexual harassment of female staff of the regional administration, including Shaharazade Atkinson, a District Education Officer.

“Several of these victims were forced to leave their jobs due to Mr Parker’s harassment and improper behaviour,” the petition stated.

Parker is also accused of discriminating against Amerindian staff, including withholding of salaries and transferring staff without proper and prior consultation.