By Zoila Palma: Today, Former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso wrote to the National Garifuna Council urging the council to call on the “public officials to clarify, withdraw, and, if appropriate, publicly apologize for any statements that may be perceived as discriminatory or prejudicial.”
“I write with deep concern regarding the tragic killing of Mr. Zamar Ajani Alvarez in Belmopan approximately ten days ago, and the subsequent public remarks made by officials in response to this incident.
According to media reports, statements attributed to the Hon. Oscar Mira, Area Representative for Belmopan and Minister of Home Affairs, suggested that the incident was “a spill” from events occurring in other communities. Additionally, the public reaction from the Mayor of Belmopan and the Area Representative appeared to distance themselves from the deceased. The two individuals killed were Garifuna, Black residents of Belmopan,” Swaso explained.
Swaso says that public officials carry a heightened duty of care in moments of public tragedy.
“Their words must reflect impartiality, restraint, and respect for the dignity of every citizen. Both the Mayor and the Area Representative have sworn Oaths of Office to execute their functions without fear or favour, affection or ill will, and to uphold the Constitution and laws of Belize,” Swaso added.
Swaso reminded that Belize is a State Party to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), which obligates States to condemn racial discrimination and ensure that public authorities act in conformity with this obligation.
“In circumstances where two Garifuna, Black citizens have lost their lives, the utmost sensitivity, neutrality, and respect are required from elected leaders. Any language that appears to externalize responsibility or stigmatize communities risks deepening social division and eroding public trust in institutions charged with safeguarding all residents equally,” Swaso added.
The former Ombudsman called on the National Garifuna Council to consider calling on the officials to withdraw and publicly apologize, to reaffirm the principle that all Belizeans, regardless of ethnicity or community, are entitled to equal protection, dignity, and respect under the law.
“This moment calls for moral clarity and principled leadership. The Garifuna community has long contributed to the development, culture, and security of Belize. It is neither appropriate nor lawful for any citizen to be implicitly characterized in a manner that diminishes their dignity or belonging,” Swaso said.
The post Former Ombudsman urges National Garifuna Council to demand apology from Belmopan Area Rep and Mayor appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Today, Former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso wrote to the National Garifuna Council urging the council to call on the “public officials to clarify, withdraw, and, if appropriate, publicly apologize for any statements that may be perceived as discriminatory or prejudicial.” “I write with deep concern regarding the tragic killing of Mr. Zamar Ajani
The post Former Ombudsman urges National Garifuna Council to demand apology from Belmopan Area Rep and Mayor appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
