By Belize Live News Staff: Leader of the Opposition, Tracy Taegar Panton, has issued a strong statement condemning the Government of Belize’s decision to take legal action against the Office of the Ombudsman, describing the move as an “unprecedented and deeply troubling” assault on institutional independence and democratic governance.
According to the statement, the government’s action, effectively a case of the state suing itself, raises serious questions about its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The Office of the Ombudsman is a constitutionally established institution charged with investigating complaints against government departments, ensuring public sector accountability, and protecting citizens’ rights. The Opposition argues that any effort to limit or silence this office, particularly regarding the disclosure of government expenditure on legal services, undermines the very principles of openness and oversight that the office is meant to protect.
Panton emphasized that Belizeans have a constitutional right to know how public funds are being spent, including payments made to private law firms and attorneys. “The Freedom of Information Act exists to ensure transparency and prevent secrecy in government spending,” she noted.
The Opposition maintains that this legal action represents a direct challenge to the independence of Belize’s oversight bodies and threatens the public’s trust in democratic institutions. Panton urged Prime Minister John Briceño and the Attorney General to withdraw the lawsuit immediately and reaffirm their administration’s commitment to good governance and the separation of powers.
She also called on civil society organizations and governance advocates to remain vigilant and to “stand in defense of institutional integrity and democratic accountability.”
“Our democracy demands vigilance. Our people deserve transparency. And our Constitution requires that no one, not even the government, be above the law,” Panton concluded.
