The Ombudsman’s Office in Crisis: Questions Arise Over Contract Non-Renewal
As 2025 drew to a close, Belizeans found themselves grappling with uncertainties after the government announced it would not renew the contract of retired Major Gilbert Swaso, the former Ombudsman. This unexpected decision has not only left the position vacant but also sparked a renewed public debate concerning the significance of the Ombudsman’s office, created to serve as a constitutional watchdog for citizens.
A Constitutional Cornerstone
Established in 1999, the Office of the Ombudsman is fundamentally designed to investigate complaints of maladministration, abuse of power, and violations of the Freedom of Information Act. Its primary function is to serve as a place of last resort for those who feel wronged by governmental or institutional actions. As public trust hangs in the balance, the recent silence from officials has only intensified concerns about the future of this critical office.
The Role and Powers of the Ombudsman
The Ombudsman acts as a vital intermediary between the government and citizens. According to the relevant act, each appointee serves a three-year term with the opportunity for reappointment. Holding emoluments equivalent to a Supreme Court judge, the Ombudsman is empowered to assist individuals or groups who believe they have been treated unjustly.
In a poignant 2023 interview with News Five, Gilbert Swaso underscored the office’s mission:
“We exist for people who suffer injustice, people who are vulnerable, people who are not getting the service that they believe they deserve.”
His calls for complaints to be made by the general public emphasize the specific need for engagement in order to fulfill the office’s purpose.
Public Perception Amidst Controversy
Over the years, numerous Belizeans have turned to the Ombudsman for clarity and relief. Cases range from wrongful evictions to investigations into police-related incidents. For instance, in 2024, an elderly Belize City woman sought help after being wrongfully evicted, while a 2025 inquiry arose from a police-involved shooting. Activist Jerry Enriquez approached the office seeking transparency regarding government legal fees, demonstrating that the Ombudsman’s role extends deeply into public accountability.
Enriquez stated:
“The Ombudsman’s office is there to protect the people of Belize… it is the go-to person for those who feel the government or state is abusing their authority.”
His words reflect the collective reliance on this institution for justice and oversight.
Mixed Outcomes and Growing Frustration
However, not all interactions with the Ombudsman’s office leave citizens feeling hopeful. Belize City resident Monique Teck voiced her frustrations after numerous attempts to file complaints regarding alleged injustices she faced at the hands of the police yielded little to no results:
“When I make a report, nothing. Now Monday they come da my house seh they want he fi P.I. murder. Which P.I. murder? Who do murder.”
This highlights a troubling reality: while the office is tasked with holding authority accountable, there remain questions about its effectiveness and responsiveness.
Institutional Integrity at Stake
The appointment process of the Ombudsman raises concerns about the office’s independence. Critics argue that the potential for political influence jeopardizes the office’s impartiality. Yet, the necessity for such a role in protecting citizens from government overreach is undisputed.
An Empty Office, A Hopeful Future
Today, as the Office of the Ombudsman remains vacant, important questions linger about its future trajectory. The absence of leadership not only affects ongoing investigations and public trust but also symbolizes a broader challenge for Belize’s commitment to transparency and accountability. For now, the people of Belize can only wait and watch as developments unfold, hoping to see a champion for justice appointed to fulfill this indispensable role.
