Minister Kareem Musa supports independent investigation into Joseph Budna abduction; will meet with Prime Minister to clarify position

Posted: Sunday, September 14, 2025. 7:11 pm CST.

By Aaron Humes: Prime Minister John Briceño has so far not taken up the recommendation of Minister of Home Affairs, Kareem Musa, for an independent investigation into the alleged abduction of Joseph Budna on August 22 and the release of surveillance videos. He has preferred to allow the Police to complete their investigation into the incident, in which officers are accused of taking part.

“I haven’t had a chance to sit with the Prime Minister as yet. I hope to do that sometime this week, this coming week, on this particular issue. So hopefully we could sort that out,” Musa stated to Channel 7 News on his return to the country from Panama.

The case also brought attention to Commissioner of Police Richard Rosado, who was placed on administrative leave just 131 days into his tenure—the first such action in Belize’s history. Prime Minister Briceño indicated there might still be a future for Rosado, despite the controversy.

Briceño explained, “It’s almost like damned if you do, damned if you don’t. He decided to do the honourable thing, and it’s best that he takes administrative leave so that we can proceed with the investigation; it has nothing to do with shaming Commissioner Rosado.”

However, Musa expressed more caution. When asked if Rosado could return after being publicly undermined, he responded, “That’s left to be seen. As you know, the Prime Minister has gotten, has given directives, to the effect that ACP Anderson, who is well fit, to carry out this investigation, and I presume that that investigation is going to be wrapped up sometime in the coming weeks. And so we’ll have to see what happens after that.”

Musa clarified that Rosado’s appointment was based on seniority, supported by the High Court ruling on the question of his seniority.

Musa also indicated that he is prepared to collaborate with Acting Commissioner Bart Jones, despite Jones not being his first choice for the role. “I can work with any police officer, from constable to commissioner,” Musa said. “I have a good working relationship with the entire police force, and I believe they feel autonomous in their work.”

Questions also remain about Constable Barry Flowers, identified by Joseph Budna as one of his alleged abductors, who has now been placed on interdiction. Musa acknowledged a lack of information on the matter. “I would not know the specifics of why Barry Flowers is interdicted. I need to review the investigative report,” Musa stated. He also noted the issue of Flowers being issued a firearm while on leave remains under investigation, and promised further updates once he receives more briefing from the investigative team.

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The post Minister Kareem Musa supports independent investigation into Joseph Budna abduction; will meet with Prime Minister to clarify position appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.

Posted: Sunday, September 14, 2025. 7:11 pm CST. By Aaron Humes: Prime Minister John Briceño has so far not taken up the recommendation of Minister of
The post Minister Kareem Musa supports independent investigation into Joseph Budna abduction; will meet with Prime Minister to clarify position appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.