Two junior ministers officially moved up the government ranks today, taking on full ministerial responsibilities after Tuesday’s Cabinet shake-up. Shortly before midday, Toledo East Area Representative Dr. Osmond Martinez arrived at Belize House in Belmopan, where Governor General Dame Froyla Tzalam administered his Oath of Office as Minister of Economic Transformation. Orange Walk North Area Representative Ramon “Monchi” Cervantes followed, formally taking charge of the newly configured Ministry of Public Utilities, Logistics and Solid Waste Management. Their promotions were among several portfolio changes approved during Tuesday’s marathon Cabinet meeting, which also handed Minister Michel Chebat a significantly expanded role.
Osmond Martinez
Dr. Osmond Martinez, Minister of Economic Transformation
“I, Osmond Martinez, do swear that I will give true faith and allegiance to Belize and will uphold the constitution and the law and that I will conscientiously, impartially, and to the best of my ability, discharge my duties as minister and do right to all manner of people without fear or favor, affection, or ill will. So help me, God.
Ramon “Monchi” Cervantes
Ramon “Monchi” Cervantes, Minister of Public Utilities
“I, Ramon Cervantes, do swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to Belize and will uphold the constitution and the law and that I will conscientiously, impartially, and to the best of my ability, discharge my duties as minister and do right to all manner of people without fear or favor, affection, or ill will. So help me God.”
This latest reshuffle follows closely on the heels of the “Mira Millions” scandal, which rocked the government just over three months ago and pushed former Home Affairs Minister Oscar Mira and Defense Minister Florencio Marin Jr. out of Cabinet.
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