Amid ongoing speculation about potential shifts in Belize’s national security approach, former Home Affairs Minister Kareem Musa has emerged as a vocal defender of the current crime prevention framework. Musa has publicly championed the Leadership Intervention Unit (LIU), asserting that no discussions about downsizing the program have occurred at the Cabinet level despite recent ministerial changes.
The former minister presented compelling statistical evidence to support his position, highlighting a remarkable reduction in homicide rates over the past three years. According to Musa, Belize has recorded fewer than 90 annual murders during this period—a significant improvement from previous years that regularly saw approximately 140 homicides. This achievement marks the first time in over twenty-five years that the nation has maintained such reduced murder numbers for consecutive years.
Musa credited the late William Dawson as the original architect of the LIU concept, describing the initiative as “an incredible concept” that requires further development rather than dismantlement. While acknowledging that full implementation of Dawson’s vision remains ongoing, the former minister emphasized that the statistical evidence demonstrates clear impact.
“When you look at it from a clear black and white statistical purpose, you can see where it has had an impact,” Musa stated during his defense of the program. He expressed hope that the government would not only continue the LIU program but strengthen it as Belize seeks sustainable solutions to address violent crime long-term.
The public endorsement comes during a period of transition within Belize’s security leadership, raising questions about potential policy directions under the new ministerial appointment.