135 Days! Belize still without an Ombudsman Panton warns

Belize has gone 135 days without an Ombudsman, stalling a Freedom of Information appeal case and prompting Opposition Leader Tracy Panton to warn that the prolonged vacancy is weakening government accountability and public oversight.

In comments provided to *The Reporter*, Panton said the continued absence of an Ombudsman is “deeply troubling and unacceptable,” arguing that the office serves as one of Belize’s key independent mechanisms for investigating abuse of power, maladministration, corruption and Freedom of Information disputes.

The office became vacant at the end of December 2025 after the term of former Ombudsman Major Gilbert Swaso was not renewed. Although government officials reportedly indicated earlier this year that the appointment process would proceed, no replacement has yet been named.

The vacancy has also delayed movement in a Court of Appeal matter involving the Attorney General’s Ministry and a Freedom of Information request seeking disclosure of payments made to private attorneys.

That appeal emerged after the former Ombudsman ruled last year that the Attorney General’s Ministry should comply with the request. The Attorney General subsequently challenged the ruling before the Court of Appeal.

Panton argued that leaving the office vacant weakens an important avenue for public redress at a time when confidence in public institutions is already fragile. She also questioned whether the administration remains committed to the transparency and accountability standards it had previously pledged to uphold.

The Opposition Leader further called for an appointment process that is independent and free from political interference, arguing that Belize requires an Ombudsman capable of serving “without fear or favour.”

Under Belizean law, the Ombudsman is empowered to investigate complaints involving government departments and public authorities, including allegations tied to abuse of authority, poor administration, corruption and Freedom of Information matters.