Rosado Benched: PM Orders 45-Day Leave Over Investigation Concerns  

In a development that’s capturing national attention, Prime Minister John Briceño has taken decisive action in the ongoing investigation surrounding the Budna matter, citing serious concerns about how the case has been handled so far. Last Friday, the Prime Minister received a report from the Police Department via Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa. But instead of answers, the report raised more questions. Briceño called it incomplete and unsatisfactory and wasted no time responding. Effective immediately, Police Commissioner Doctor Richard Rosado has been placed on a forty-five-day leave. It’s the first time, to our knowledge, that the head of the Belize Police Department has been sidelined. Rosado’s suspension comes a little over four months after he assumed office as Commissioner of Police. The Prime Minister says this is necessary given the public’s intense interest and the serious allegations tied to the case. A statement issued by the Government of Belize at midday goes on to say, “Doctor Rosado’s leave, in the context of the high level of public interest in this matter, as well as the grave allegations made against the Police Department and the incomplete investigative report, is proper and proportionate at this time”.

Deputy Commissioner Bart Jones will step in as Acting Commissioner during Rosado’s absence. Meanwhile, Police Officer Barrington Flowers has been officially interdicted. In reference to Flowers, the release says, “The Prime Minister further confirms that as of September 7th, 2025, Police Officer Mr. Barrington Flowers has been placed on interdiction, based upon information gathered in the preliminary investigative report”. To ensure the case gets the attention it deserves, Acting Commissioner Jones has tapped Deputy Commissioner Suzette Anderson to take over the investigation and deliver a full report by the end of the month. The statement further reads, “once the Investigative Report is properly prepared and submitted, the Prime Minister, along with the Cabinet, will act swiftly on its recommendation”. Prime Minister Briceño emphasized that these decisions are about protecting the integrity of the Police Department and upholding the rule of law. The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Police Department have promised to keep the public updated as the investigation continues.