By Belize Live News Staff: The United Democratic Party says the biggest concern surrounding the Ombudsman’s vacancy is not politics but the impact on ordinary Belizeans. In a statement released on June 8, the opposition argued that citizens have been left without a substantive Ombudsman for more than six months and that important complaints against public authorities may be left unresolved.
According to the UDP, the Ombudsman exists to provide an independent avenue for citizens who believe they have been treated unfairly by government agencies or public officials. The party claims that without a functioning office, Belizeans may face greater difficulty seeking review of administrative decisions or pursuing matters involving government accountability.
The opposition is also questioning the circumstances surrounding the departure of former Ombudsman Major (Ret’d) Gilbert Swazo. The UDP notes public reports regarding the non-renewal of his contract and says the lack of a replacement has created concerns about the independence of constitutional oversight institutions.
Importantly, these concerns represent the position of the UDP, and the government has not responded within the party’s release. The opposition is calling on the Prime Minister, the Attorney General, and other constitutional actors to explain why no substantive or acting Ombudsman has been appointed since December 2025.
The larger issue raised by the UDP is one that extends beyond party politics. If constitutional watchdog offices are intended to protect citizens and hold public authorities accountable, Belizeans may reasonably ask how those responsibilities are being fulfilled while the position remains vacant.
