In a landmark public hearing on October 24, 2025, Belize’s National Assembly convened the Joint Public Accounts Committee (JPAC) for its first session of the year. Chaired by Lee Mark Chang, a prominent member of the Opposition, the committee comprises representatives from both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Its primary mandate is to oversee the efficient, transparent, and accountable use of public funds in the interest of Belizean citizens. The focal point of the session was the Auditor General’s Report for the fiscal years 2015/2016, with Auditor General Maria Rodriquez providing testimony. Rodriquez highlighted challenges in hiring and training junior audit clerks, noting that many recruits lack accounting backgrounds, which prolongs training periods. She also addressed concerns about pay scales for mid-level and technical roles, emphasizing the need for experienced personnel despite regulatory constraints on salaries. The hearing underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen public financial management in Belize.