Is GOB Undermining Good Governance by Taking the Ombudsman to Court?

The National Trade Union Congress of Belize has come out swinging at the Government of Belize over its decision to take the Ombudsman to court. The union argues that this move is a clear violation of good governance principles. We heard from President Ella Waight.

 

Ella Waight, President, NTUCB

“The National Trade Union Congress of Belize met this weekend, and we would like to express our deep concerned and disappointment over the government’s decision to take the Office of the Ombudsman to court. This action reflects a direct afront to the principles of good governance, principles that the National Trade Union Congress of Belize has consistently championed, and the government of Belize pledged to uphold in its Plan Belize 2020 commitments. The NTUCB would like the public to know that it is firmly in solidarity with the office of the ombudsman recognizing that this matter is one of significant public interest. The legal cost associated with this case are drawn from the consolidated funds. These are public funds, not to be hidden or restricted from public scrutiny. We therefore call on the government of Belize to immediately reconsider its course of action.”

 

The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority Workers Union is also joining the call for full disclosure. The union contends that public funds must always be subject to public scrutiny, adding that a lack of transparency undermines democracy and the confidence in public servants