标签： Belize

In an unprecedented turn of events, María Corina Machado, Venezuela’s 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has been threatened with arrest by her own government. The Venezuelan authorities have declared that Machado will be considered a “fugitive” if she attempts to leave the country to receive her award in Oslo, Norway, on December 10. Tarik William Saab, a prominent Venezuelan politician and lawyer, has accused Machado of charges including “conspiracy, incitement of hatred, and terrorism.”

A Trinidadian woman, Olive Green-Jack, has been detained following allegations that she urged the Venezuelan government to target the residence of Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar. The incident stems from a social media post in which Green-Jack shared a photo of one of the Prime Minister’s residences and called for Venezuelan action against it. Authorities issued a detention order on November 12, citing her comments as a severe threat to national security and public safety. This development follows Venezuela’s declaration of Persad-Bissessar as persona non grata in October, a response to her support for U.S. naval exercises near Venezuelan waters, which Caracas viewed as a violation of its sovereignty. Green-Jack is currently being held at the Trinidad & Tobago Women’s Prison. The case has raised concerns about potential external influences inciting violence within the country.

Oscar Mira’s recent transition from the Ministry of National Defense and Border Security to the Ministry of Home Affairs has sparked widespread debate in Belize. Widely regarded as one of the most challenging roles in the government, the Home Affairs portfolio demands a robust strategy to combat crime and ensure public safety. Critics question whether Mira is equipped for this high-pressure position, while supporters argue he has the determination to succeed. In a recent interview in Belmopan, Mira addressed the skepticism head-on, emphasizing his commitment to the role. He stated, ‘I work at the pleasure of the prime minister. As a member of Cabinet, it is my duty to fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to me. I will not shy away from any challenge.’ Mira acknowledged the complexity of the task, vowing to collaborate with law enforcement and other departments to reduce crime to manageable levels. The move has been labeled by some as ‘political suicide,’ but others see it as an opportunity for Mira to prove his capabilities. As Belize grapples with rising crime rates, all eyes are on Mira to deliver results.

In a significant development within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Minister Oscar Mira has initiated a meticulous search for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The selection process has garnered considerable attention, with prominent figures such as former Commissioner of Police Chester Williams and Deputy Commissioner Bart Jones emerging as potential candidates. Minister Mira, however, has underscored that the decision transcends mere appointment; it is about identifying a leader with the requisite expertise and vision to propel the ministry forward. Speaking to reporters, Mira revealed ongoing consultations with the Office of the Prime Minister to ensure the selection of a suitable candidate. He emphasized the critical nature of the role, particularly in the context of security and operational efficiency. While rumors have circulated regarding the exclusion of former CEO Ms. Sharole, Mira clarified that her departure was part of broader organizational changes. Kareem Musa, Minister of Immigration, expressed confidence in the potential candidates, highlighting their proven track records in law enforcement. As the process unfolds, the focus remains on securing a leader capable of fostering seamless operations within the ministry.

As Oscar Mira assumes the role of Belize’s Minister of Home Affairs, he faces the dual challenge of addressing rising crime rates and managing the fallout from the Joseph Budna investigation, a case that has severely undermined public trust in the Belize Police Department. The investigation file has been handed over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), with Mira emphasizing a hands-off approach to ensure impartiality. Despite mounting pressure, Mira has refrained from interfering, stating, ‘That file has been sent to the DPP. It is her job to give us the advice we need.’ When questioned about the lack of substantial evidence in the police investigation, Mira maintained his stance, asserting that he has not seen the file and will not influence the process. The controversy has sparked debates about transparency, with reporters pressing Mira on whether the investigation tape should be released. Mira reiterated his commitment to justice but stressed that his role does not involve meddling in concluded investigations. ‘The trust that we will work for, we will get it back,’ he affirmed, highlighting his dedication to restoring public confidence in law enforcement. However, critics question how he plans to rebuild trust while distancing himself from a scandal that continues to haunt the department.

In a strategic move to enhance security and streamline governance, Prime Minister John Briceño has merged the Ministry of Enterprise with the Ministry of Home Affairs. This decision comes amid growing concerns over safety in the Corozal Free Zone, a critical economic hub. The newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs, Oscar Mira, has outlined his immediate priorities to address these issues. Mira emphasized his commitment to ensuring a secure environment for businesses to operate without fear. ‘I am scheduled to meet with the CEO of the Freezone and the chairman of the board shortly,’ Mira stated. ‘Our goal is to thoroughly examine all aspects and ensure that businesses can thrive in a safe and secure environment.’ While Mira acknowledged that he has yet to receive a comprehensive briefing on the current situation, he assured that his team would mobilize all necessary resources to address any security challenges. When questioned about the police department’s capacity to counter alleged cartel influence in the Freezone, Mira responded cautiously, stating, ‘I need to understand the specifics of these allegations first. Our focus is on pooling all resources to make the area safe for business.’ This development underscores the government’s proactive approach to safeguarding economic interests while addressing security concerns in the region.

In a significant Cabinet reshuffle, Kareem Musa has transitioned from his role as Minister of Home Affairs to take charge of the Ministry of Immigration, Labor, and Governance. This move has ignited widespread speculation and debate across Belize. While some critics view this as a demotion, Musa firmly asserts that it is a promotion, emphasizing the complexity and importance of his new responsibilities. He expressed optimism about his new role, highlighting the challenges in immigration, labor, and governance, and underscored the Prime Minister’s confidence in his legal expertise to navigate these critical areas. The timing of this reshuffle has raised questions, particularly in light of the ongoing investigation into the kidnapping of Joseph Budna. Musa has categorically denied any involvement in the case, stating that the Prime Minister and the Cabinet are fully aware of his innocence. He also addressed concerns about the investigation’s progress, noting that there is substantial evidence, including video footage and officer statements, which could be revisited. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Musa’s political career, with implications for Belize’s governance and public perception.

In a surprising turn of events, Belize’s Prime Minister John Briceño announced on Tuesday that Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai has taken a leave of absence due to health reasons. According to Briceño, Mai sustained a back injury from a horse fall approximately a year ago and now requires surgery. However, this explanation has been met with growing skepticism, as rumors suggest that Mai’s departure may have been influenced by external pressures, particularly from Washington. The situation has sparked intense speculation and debate within Belize’s political circles. When questioned, Mai’s Cabinet colleagues offered mixed responses. Oscar Mira, Minister of Home Affairs, acknowledged that Mai had indeed suffered an accident but refrained from elaborating further, stating, “All of us decide and know how we feel. Sometimes we need to take a break.” Kareem Musa, Minister of Immigration and Labor, admitted he had not been able to reach Mai for comment but noted that the minister had been complaining of pain for some time. The prime minister’s account, while supported by some, continues to be scrutinized as the public seeks clarity on the true reasons behind Mai’s sudden leave.