By Belize Live News Staff: UDP Leader Tracy Panton is challenging Prime Minister John Briceño’s decision to retain Ambassador Alexis Rosado on Belize’s International Court of Justice team, arguing that serious criminal proceedings require consistent standards of public accountability.
Rosado, who serves as a co-agent in Belize’s territorial cases, faces criminal charges involving allegations of sexual offences, including rape. He has pleaded not guilty and remains presumed innocent.
In her statement, Panton acknowledged Rosado’s constitutional right to due process but maintained that stepping aside temporarily would not amount to a finding of guilt.
She questioned whether the Government’s decision reflects the standards it expects from individuals holding important public responsibilities.
Briceño defended Rosado’s continued involvement on October 21, saying his decades of experience alongside Ambassador Assad Shoman are important as Belize prepares for ICJ hearings involving Guatemala and Honduras in 2027.
Foreign Affairs Minister Francis Fonseca has also said the Government is following Shoman’s advice that Rosado’s continued participation is important to the legal team’s preparations.
Panton, however, called for Rosado to voluntarily step aside until the criminal proceedings are resolved.
She argued that political connections, professional responsibilities and personal relationships should not determine how accountability standards are applied.
The Opposition Leader also called for the protection of complainants in sexual violence cases, particularly children, while emphasizing the importance of fair judicial proceedings.
Rosado’s next reported court date is November 20, 2026. No determination of guilt has been made.
