Belize Coast Guard Has New Commandant

Gregory Soberanis has been sworn in as the new Rear Admiral Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard. This marks a change of leadership after six years under Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, who last month assumed duties as Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Soberanis served as vice-commandant since 2019 and now takes over as the Coast Guard continues to expand its fleet, bases, and operational responsibilities.

Prime Minister John Briceño was present at today’s swearing-in ceremony. He said the transition signals stability within the security forces. “It’s more of ceremonial because the work continues,” he said. “We have two very good officers that have served in Belize for many years and and they’ve been promoted going through the ranks, and they’re properly prepared. And so it’s just a matter of continuity.”

The new leadership brings fresh ideas and renewed energy ” to be able to better defend Belize and to support our people and to protect them,” Briceño added.

Soberanis has welcomed his new position with open arms, saying, “This has been a moment that I’ve been looking forward to for quite some time… Our career development plan really prepares you; it develops you and trains you to really take command someday.”

He said his focus will be on partnerships, culture and readiness. “We want to shape the organisation to meet the evolving threats in the maritime domain.”

After witnessing her son officially take the lead of the Coast Guard, Darlene Graham said, “I know my son works very hard. He gives all his diligence, everything for Coast Guard. Coast Guard was his life. He was always willing to travel whenever he was asked to travel. And coming back and was awarded this great accomplishment, I feel like I the receive it with him too.”