Two High Court Appointments Finalized After Months of Debate

Two appointments to Belize’s High Court have been finalized following months of debate over the selection process and opportunities for Belizean attorneys to serve on the bench. Former Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Sheiniza Smith, a Guyanese national living in Belize, and Trinidadian attorney Peter Carter will take up their appointments on November second. According to notices reported in the Belize Gazette and correspondence from the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, Smith’s tenure runs until February fifth, 2051, while Carter’s runs until April 23, 2053.   The controversy began in July when their recommendations became public. The Association of Defence Attorneys argued that qualified Belizean applicants were being overlooked. Reports at the time identified Registrar Trenia Young and former Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser as applicants who had not been shortlisted. The association also called for representation on the Judicial and Legal Services Commission and greater transparency in how candidates are selected.  Attorney Orson Elrington clarified that the association was not questioning the competence of the two nominees or objecting to CARICOM nationals. Its concern, he said, centred on participation in the process and proper consideration for experienced local practitioners. The Bar Association of Belize defended the commission, saying judicial vacancies are publicly advertised and eligible attorneys from Belize and the wider Caribbean may apply. It maintained that candidates are interviewed and assessed through an independent process intended to protect judicial appointments from political interference. Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre had explained in July that the recommendations were still undergoing consultation with Opposition Leader Tracy Panton, who had requested additional information. With the appointments now finalized, both judges are scheduled to begin serving next Monday.