Opposition Leader Calls for Oversight into Municipalities Amid Allegations of Mismanagement

Leader of the Opposition, Moses Shyne Barrow, is calling out Prime Minister John Briceno for better oversight into the municipalities across the country.  Barrow pointed to the recent allegations of financial mismanagement at the Punta Gorda Council as well as allegations of abuse and assault against one of the councilors.  He further claimed that there is an abuse of power and nepotism taking place at the Belize City Council, evidenced by the departure of some of its employees, and the termination of others.  He noted that there have also been complaints and allegations of mismanagement in other municipalities including the Benque Viejo del Carmen council, the Belmopan City Council and the Corozal Town Council.  In his letter, Barrow stated that at the Belize City Council, “Financial analyst Edwin Alvarado left in November 2022, less than three months after being hired. Amir Carillo, who was the financial analyst prior to Alvarado, took on the role as Director of Finance also resigned months into the assignment. Stephanie Lindo, City Administrator, has been benched, humbled and effectively turned into a high cost rubber stamp after her public spat with council members. All this has taken place while allegations after allegations of financial irregularities have been hurled at the council. Additionally, he claims that the Minister of Local Government, Oscar Requena has refused to address the complaints, specifically at the Punta Gorda Town Council.  Love News, however, did report last night that Minister Requena has met with the PG Town Council, and according to Mayor Charles Selgado, all concerns were settled.  Interestingly, however, Love News did acquire some documents today that just may prove otherwise.  We will fill you in on the contents of these documents, once we get them verified.