The Choice is Clear: Scandal-Plagued Head of IMF Must Resign

The head of the International Monetary Fund (

) was charged Sunday with the attempted rape of a New York City hotel worker, likely severing any remaining hope of a French presidential bid. Dominique Strauss-Kahn was charged with a criminal sexual act, unlawful imprisonment and attempted rape in Manhattan Criminal Court. He would plead not guilty, his lawyers said. The accusations are a deep blow, especially to France and the IMF. Strauss-Kahn had previously admitted "poor judgement" in an a previous work-related affair with a subordinate at the IMF. According to a Reuters report, "A maid, 32, said he emerged naked from the bathroom and sexually assaulted her inside his $3,000-a-night suite at the Sofitel hotel near New York's Times Square on Saturday afternoon." Police speculate that the defendant fled his hotel suite and was minutes away from departing on an Air France trip back to Europe before they caught him on the plane still idling on the tarmac. This messy situation clearly does not bode well for the IMF, which continues to support a shaky European Union. How can the organization be expected to improve on a difficult economic environment with this black cloud overhanging? It's fairly clear that Strauss-Kahn must resign. Most certainly, Strauss-Kahn faces a brutal court battle ahead. His energies would best be served in his defense, not juggling the affairs of a global economic organization and his personal commitments. Further, the IMF already gave him a pass in a previous sexual episode. Why should the organization put up with more of his prolonged drama and scandal? Europe and developing countries heavily depend on the IMF for financing and economic support. To effectively meet these obligations, the International Monetary Fund must create an environment that fosters positive change and accountability. To demonstrate that this culture resonates, Strauss-Kahn has no choice but to leave.