Opposition Member of Parliament, Annette Ferguson, has expressed her support for Woman Sergeant Eva Harry of the Guyana Police Force, following her recent interview detailing alleged mistreatment by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Errol Watts.
In a statement released after the exclusive interview aired on January 31, 2025, on Big Smith Online News, Ferguson praised Sergeant Harry for her bravery in speaking out about the alleged “unprofessionalism and bullyism” she experienced at the hands of Mr. Watts.
“I must applaud Ms. Harry for her boldness, bravery, and stance taken against Mr. Watts, by coming public to let us know the treatment she was exposed to,” Ferguson stated.
The Opposition MP expressed deep sympathy for Sergeant Harry, emphasizing the need for protection for women in the workforce, particularly within the Guyana Police Force. She called on civil society, women’s organisations, and female members of the Guyana Police Force to unite and condemn Mr. Watts’ alleged actions.
“I believe she should be given protection while in the employment of the Guyana Police Force,” Ferguson said. “Let us call for his removal as Deputy Commissioner of Police, and an investigation must be launched immediately. The well-being of Ms. Harry must be protected.”
Ferguson further emphasised the importance of standing up against workplace harassment, victimization, discrimination, disrespect, bullying, and unprofessionalism, particularly toward women.
“It is TIME women take a stance against workplace harassment, victimization, discrimination, disrespect, bullyism, and unprofessionalism against our womenfolk,” Ferguson concluded.
The issue of gender-based violence remains a serious concern in Guyana. According to Renata Chuck-A-Sang, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Women and Gender Equality Commission, more stringent penalties for perpetrators, improved enforcement mechanisms, and streamlined processes for obtaining restraining orders or timely judicial responses are needed. She also highlighted the critical role of accessible and sensitive support services for survivors, including shelters, counseling, and legal aid, in helping individuals escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives.
Chuck-A-Sang stressed that gender-based violence is not only a women’s issue and called for greater efforts to engage men and boys in discussions about healthy masculinity and the prevention of violence. She also emphasised the importance of collecting accurate data on the prevalence and types of gender violence to better understand the scope of the problem and design more effective interventions.
