The Government of Belize’s proposed Thirteenth Amendment is facing scrutiny as it moves through parliament. The amendment is touted as a crime-fighting measure, which seeks to solidify the government’s powers during states of emergency, particularly in crime-affected zones. But critics warn it could come at the cost of constitutional rights.
Former Attorney General and returning UDP Chairman Mike Peyrefitte says the proposal raises red flags over access to justice. Peyrefitte argues that the amendment could limit individuals’ ability to challenge their detention in court, an act he believes would be unconstitutional.
“I think it’s well established that no law can be passed to say [that] you cannot take a matter to court,” Peyrefitte told the media on Tuesday.
“If someone is deprived of their liberty and they believe that it’s being done in a wrong way,” he added. “I cannot imagine the court saying that they will not hear them, or hear their issues and make a determination on it.”