3 weeks ago, we told you how Justice Michelle Arana was about to be elevated to the post of Acting Chief Justice of Belize. Well, that appointment became official today at a small ceremony in Belmopan.
Justice Arana was sworn into office by the Governor-General, Sir Colville Young, at the Belize House. She now formally takes over from the former Chief Justice, Kenneth Benjamin, who attained the age of retirement at 65 in March. Arana, who has been on the bench since 2006, was the first woman Justice of the supreme court. Shie is also the most senior sitting judge, and she now becomes the first woman to hold the Chief Justice's seat.
It Is believed she will do so on an interim basis - while the government advertises the post. According to the constitution, She is appointed by the Governor-General, acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister given after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition.
Lionel Arzu, Belize's Ombudsman since 2012, was also sworn back into the office today for another term.
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