In a significant political development, Gilbert Swazo concluded his three-year tenure as Belize’s Ombudsman on December 31, 2025, following the government’s decision not to renew his contract. The notification arrived via a Christmas Eve letter, culminating a period of heightened tension between Swazo’s office and the administration.
The departure follows Swazo’s controversial ruling under the Freedom of Information Act that favored activist Jeremy Enriquez—a decision currently under legal challenge by the government. This ruling reportedly created substantial friction between the Ombudsman and government officials, leading to speculation about the connection between this constitutional standoff and his non-renewal.
In his final statements, Swazo, a retired Major, emphasized his unwavering commitment to constitutional principles. ‘I took a solemn oath to abide by the Constitution and to do right in all manner of people based on the oath,’ he stated. ‘I operated within the confines of the law, ensuring I abide by the constitution of Belize, the laws of Belize, and the rule of law.’
When questioned about potential government blacklisting given the administration’s remaining four-year term, Swazo responded with principled defiance: ‘I stand predominant by speaking to my values as an individual, as a Garifuna man, as a Belizean. If I must pay the consequences for being in harmony with my values and the Constitution, I will continue to hold my head very high.’
The departure marks a notable moment in Belize’s governance landscape, raising questions about the independence of oversight institutions and the balance of power between government branches.