BELIZE CITY, Oct. 20 (AP) – Questions have emerged about the professional and personal ties between newly installed Police Minister Michel Chebat and the country’s top law enforcement official, Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado, but Prime Minister John Briceño is pushing back against concerns, arguing that a close working relationship between the two leaders will only strengthen Belize’s national security efforts.
The longstanding connection between Chebat and Rosado is not new. Even before Chebat assumed his cabinet post leading the police portfolio, Rosado has regularly appeared alongside the minister at official events, including Chebat’s swearing-in ceremony at Government House. This history of close association has prompted questions from reporters and the public about whether the closeness could undermine the independence or effectiveness of Belize’s police force.
Prime Minister Briceño rejected these concerns during a recent press briefing, framing strong rapport between the minister and commissioner as an asset rather than a liability. “I don’t see how that could affect it negatively,” Briceño stated. “I think it would make operations better if the minister and the commissioner of police, along with the CEO, have a good working relation. A lot more can get done, and that is what I expect. I expect nothing less from them – I expect all of them to roll up their sleeves and get the job done.”
Briceño emphasized that the Ministry of National Security is one of the most critical portfolios in the government, given that the safety and well-being of all Belizeans hinges on the ministry’s ability to address domestic security challenges and border threats. The prime minister noted that public concern around national security is consistent and widespread, and a coordinated, collaborative approach between political and operational leadership is required to meet these challenges. He concluded by reiterating that he expects the relationship between Chebat and Rosado to be a productive, positive force for improving security across the country.
This report is a transcribed excerpt from a televised evening broadcast, with Kriol language content translated and transcribed using a standardized spelling system.