Indigenous Council Concerned Over Gustavo Requena’s Appointment

Pressure is mounting on the government over the appointment of Gustavo Requena as the Director of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. Requena who is the brother of Cabinet Minister Oscar Requena, succeeded Greg Choc. Requena’s appointment did not come without concerns and criticism. The Toledo Alcaldes Association first fired off a press release saying they were not consulted and that Requena has publicly shared anti-Maya land rights sentiments. The association also expressed concerns over Requena’s familial relationship with the minister. Tonight, the Belize National Indigenous Council also expresses deep concern regarding Requena’s appointment. The council says that the government’s decision to appoint Requena is a lack of serious commitment to the plight of the Indigenous Peoples of Belize. The council says “What we are witnessing here is the setting up of an office that will be marred in partisan politics and from the eyes of the people lacking integrity.” According to the council, transparent selection processes are imperative for such a crucial position and Belize has individuals well-versed in indigenous and social matters.