New REOs officially assume office

Newly-appointed Regional Executive Officers (REOs) have officially assumed office in Regions One through Eight and Region Ten, marking a new phase in regional administration and public service delivery across Guyana.
The officers who have taken up their posts are Dr Steven Cheefoon, Region One; Deolall Rooplall, Region Two; Surendra Khayyam, Region Three; Juan Edghill Jr, Region Four; Mary Samaroo, Region Five; Ronald Harsaywack, Region Six; Dr. Josh Kanhai, Region Seven; Marti DeSouza Region Eight and Dr. Gregory Harris, Region Ten.

Karl Singh will continue to serve as Regional Executive Officer for Region Nine.
REOs are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administration of Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs), ensuring the implementation of government policies and programmes, and supporting regional development initiatives across their respective jurisdictions. Their role includes coordinating technical and administrative functions and working with local democratic organs and community stakeholders.
Upon assuming office, the officers are expected to collaborate with regional administrations, technical staff, and local leaders to strengthen governance structures, improve accountability, and enhance the delivery of public services.
The appointments come as the Government continues to implement investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, public works, and broader community development across all administrative regions. REOs are expected to play a key role in coordinating and monitoring these initiatives at the regional level.
Only last week, President Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo met with Cabinet members, incoming REOs, Permanent Secretaries (PS), officers of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) and accounting officers from all administrative regions. During the May 13 meeting, President Ali stressed the importance of accountability, transparency and fiscal discipline in public administration, warning that public office carries a “sacred trust.”

He told officials that all public spending must serve the welfare of citizens and contribute to national development. According to a statement from the Office of the President published by the Guyana Times, the Government also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that procurement systems, including regional tender boards, operate transparently and in compliance with the law.
President Ali further outlined plans for the use of technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to strengthen oversight of procurement systems, improve efficiency and identify irregularities in the award and management of contracts. He warned that breaches of financial and procurement procedures, including involvement with multiple companies in violation of regulations, could lead to severe consequences, including dismissal from office.
VP Jagdeo also addressed the meeting, emphasising that State spending must always be assessed based on its contribution to citizens’ welfare and the country’s development.