BELIZE CITY – Opposition Leader Tracy Panton has launched a severe critique against the Belizean government’s termination of Ombudsman Gilbert Swazo’s contract, characterizing it as a violation of constitutional norms and established procedures. In a recent interview, Panton expressed profound disappointment with the administration’s approach to filling this crucial oversight position.
The Office of the Ombudsman represents a fundamental constitutional safeguard within Belize’s governance framework, with clearly defined appointment processes outlined in the nation’s constitution. According to customary practice, the sitting officer should indicate their intention to continue serving three months prior to contract expiration – a step Panton confirms Swazo duly followed through media interviews.
Panton highlighted the government’s missed opportunities to address the matter through proper legislative channels, noting that both House and Senate meetings occurred before year’s end without any discussion of the Ombudsman’s position. This last-minute handling has left Belize without a key constitutional officer, echoing previous administrative failures such as the nearly two-year vacancy in the Accountant General’s office.
The Opposition Leader condemned what she described as a pattern of ‘reckless’ management of public offices, emphasizing that government officials serve the people rather than personal interests. Panton called on all public officers to continue acting in Belize’s best interests, operating strictly within legal boundaries, despite the current administration’s approach to governance.