Toxic Environment Allegations Surround Newark Mayor’s Administration as Gubernatorial Campaign Heats Up

Toxic Environment Allegations Surround Newark Mayor’s Administration as Gubernatorial Campaign Heats Up

REPORT BY FOX DIGITAL: Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka, a prominent Democratic candidate for governor of New Jersey, faces serious accusations regarding his administration’s treatment of women. A thorough review by Fox News Digital reveals troubling allegations of a toxic work environment, with claims of harassment and silencing of victims in his office.

Baraka, who has held the mayoral office since 2014, appointed his brother, Amiri Baraka Jr., as chief of staff. In June 2020, Sebrivious Scott, a woman hired through a prisoner reentry initiative, accused Baraka Jr. of dismissing her concerns about sexual assault. According to Scott, she approached Baraka Jr. with allegations of sexual assault against her by a supervisor, coupled with threats to deny her a full-time position if she did not comply with sexual demands.

Reports indicate that Baraka Jr. responded by informing her that no action would be taken regarding her complaints and dismissed her concerns with the comment, “Don’t be coming here complaining about discrimination. You should be happy you have a job.” This incident highlights a troubling culture within Baraka’s administration.

Scott expressed her frustrations about her unanswered requests for a full-time position, noting that many male colleagues from the reentry program secured full-time roles while she continued to struggle. In a Facebook post following supportive comments about her situation, Scott stated, “Cuzz I’m trying. Just need all the support I can get against these monsters. I’m not afraid.” This statement reflects her resolve in the face of adversity.

When Fox News Digital reached out to Scott for comments, she mentioned, “They actually just settled after fighting this since 2018,” but declined to share specific details about the settlement, citing her lawyer’s recommendation.

Accusations Against Additional Staff Members

Baraka’s administration is not just under fire for one incident. Another brother, Obalaji Jones, was appointed as a youth opportunity coordinator and later faced accusations of sexual assault. In 2017, Dannisha Clyburn, a former city employee, alleged that Jones had assaulted her in 2013 and attempted to do so again in 2015. Clyburn recounted a harrowing encounter, claiming that Jones had lured her into a dark room and touched her without consent during a political event addressed by Baraka.

Clyburn, once a political supporter of Baraka, revealed her motivation for speaking out: a desire to protect other women from experiencing similar victimization. In a Facebook post directed to Baraka, she remarked, “Your brother Obalaji, he’s a whole other monster. You better get him out of here. He is a predator. He is a menace to our city.” Clyburn emphasized the importance of speaking out, recalling the lesson she learned from Baraka himself about reporting misconduct.

Wider Culture of Misconduct Alleged

Former Newark Councilwoman Gayle Chaneyfield Jenkins, who challenged Baraka in the 2018 mayoral race, echoed complaints about widespread abuse within Baraka’s administration. Jenkins suggested that numerous women encountered pressure to provide sexual favors in exchange for job opportunities. In a council meeting, she expressed disbelief that other women had not come forward with similar experiences.

Three years later, a lawsuit filed by a former Newark employee reiterated claims that Baraka had ignored legislation mandating an independent task force to investigate sexual harassment allegations within the city government. This task force was intended to include retired law enforcement and community members but was never appointed by the mayor.

Connections to Alleged Abusers

Baraka’s network raises further concerns, with associations to individuals accused of serious offenses. Kiburi Tucker, a known ally of Baraka, faced charges in 1996 for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl, which led to convictions for aggravated criminal sexual contact and other charges. Tucker’s close relationship with Baraka continues to raise eyebrows, particularly as he has publicly supported Baraka’s gubernatorial campaign.

In recent instances, Tucker publicly praised Baraka during campaign events, showcasing an ongoing bond that may be difficult to reconcile with the cloud of allegations surrounding Baraka’s administration.

Current Legal Challenges

Baraka’s legal troubles extended beyond workplace allegations. Recent headlines reported his arrest outside an ICE facility in Newark, where he faced trespassing charges. Following a court appearance, he claimed he was unfairly singled out during the incident, emphasizing that he was the only individual taken into custody.

As the political landscape shifts, the charges against him have since been dropped, but the scrutiny on his leadership style and decision-making continues. Baraka’s past affiliations and the unresolved accusations may impact his campaign for governance.

A Shadow Over His Gubernatorial Aspirations

Despite the challenges, Baraka’s campaign presses on, with local representatives asserting that recent allegations are unfounded and constructed on tenuous evidence. A spokesperson defended the mayor by asserting that the timing of these accusations coincides suspiciously with a rise in his popularity among voters.

Questions remain about the implications of these claims on Baraka’s political future. As Newark navigates a complex web of allegations and public perceptions, the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership resonates louder than ever with constituents aiming for a responsive administration.

In the coming weeks, as the governor’s race heats up, the electorate will be watching closely. With serious allegations now at the forefront, voters will have to weigh Baraka’s promises against a backdrop of troubling accusations regarding his leadership and the conduct of his administration.