FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — The NAACP is calling for Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson to resign amid allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct.
According to a press release from NAACP President James X. Muwakkil, the organization stands in support of two young men who publicly shared allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct involving Anderson before the Fort Myers City Council. Anderson has denied the allegations of sexual misconduct.
“The allegations involving Mayor Kevin Anderson paint a deeply concerning picture that deserves a thorough, transparent and independent review,” Muwakkil said.
The announcement by the NAACP comes after Anderson resigned from three local boards in under two weeks. Anderson has firmly resisted calls to step down from office and continues to deny the claims, asserting that the accusations stem from misrepresented communications.
The NAACP believes the allegations should be taken seriously and that any potential criminal conduct should be fully and impartially investigated by appropriate law enforcement authorities. The organization emphasized that accountability and equal treatment under the law must apply regardless of an individual’s position, influence or title.
The NAACP also supports peaceful marches, demonstrations and public advocacy to call attention to the concerns raised by the two men and to demand transparency from the institutions responsible for investigating them. The organization intends to continue addressing these concerns before the Fort Myers City Council.
“The citizens of Fort Myers deserve answers,” Muwakkil said. “Mr. Hendricks and Mr. Vann deserve to have their allegations heard and appropriately reviewed, without prejudgment of the outcome.”