In a significant legal development in Belize, former Home Affairs Minister Kareem Musa has formally requested the Supreme Court to dismiss a constitutional claim filed against him by Joseph Budna. The case, which represents a notable intersection of political accountability and constitutional law, saw Musa appearing as a private citizen with legal representation from the firm Courtenay and Coye.
When questioned by journalists regarding whether he still maintains that Budna’s constitutional rights were initially violated, Musa delivered a comprehensive defense of his ministerial actions. He asserted his full confidence in having exercised his duties appropriately while acknowledging Budna’s legal right to pursue constitutional redress.
“Joseph Budna retains every entitlement to bring this matter before the Supreme Court, just as I possess the unequivocal right to mount a vigorous defense,” stated Musa. “My position remains clear: I bear no responsibility for the alleged violations. Video evidence substantiates that a criminal act occurred, resulting in the removal of a dangerous individual from Belize’s streets, thereby enhancing public safety, particularly for vulnerable children.”
Despite acknowledging procedural irregularities, Musa emphasized having utilized all available ministerial powers to ensure transparency, including advocating for public release of relevant video footage and demanding an independent investigation into the incident. He articulated the philosophical position that “two wrongs don’t make a right,” recognizing potential procedural missteps while maintaining the outcome served public safety interests.
The former minister additionally indicated potential legal action against media outlets for what he characterized as repetition of “libelous and defamatory allegations” originally made by Arthur Saldivar, suggesting continuing legal ramifications from his ministerial tenure.