ACCSD Slams GOB Over Quiet Hol Chan Board Chair Switch

Questions are mounting on Ambergris Caye after the ‘sudden removal’ of the Chair of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Board of Trustees. The reported change has prompted the Ambergris Caye Citizens for Sustainable Development (ACCSD) to call for clarity on how decisions are being made at one of the country’s most important protected areas.

According to ACCSD, the removal of the Board’s Chair and the appointment of the current Lions Club Chair, who has since named a representative to sit in her place, were carried out without proper public explanation. The change has added to concerns about whether community voices are being sidelined.

“The lack of transparency surrounding this decision raises significant questions about whether the Statutory Instrument governing Hol Chan is being properly followed.”

ACCSD pointed out that Hol Chan is legally structured to include community participation in its governance. 

The organisation has requested an explanation for the leadership change and a full review of how community representation is being upheld. The group also wants an independent audit of Hol Chan’s finances for the past six years to strengthen transparency and restore public confidence.

“Hol Chan belongs to the people of Belize. Its governance must reflect openness, accountability, and genuine community involvement,” ACCSD added.

News 5 has reached out to the Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation and Area Representative of Belize Rural South, Andre Perez, for comment.