Henry Charles Usher Assumes Enterprise Portfolio in Belize

Minister of Public Service Henry Charles Usher has taken charge of the Enterprise portfolio following the placement of Oscar Mira on Cabinet leave. This portfolio includes the Free Zone, an area currently facing reports of smuggling and corruption. When questioned about these challenges, Usher highlighted the Free Zone's 31st anniversary and its economic contribution, noting that the zone supports over 3,000 employees and 333 businesses.

Usher addressed reports regarding his initial hesitation to accept the additional responsibilities. He clarified that any delay was due to his focus on a civil service modernization project recently approved by the Inter-American Development Bank, rather than concerns regarding the Free Zone's reputation. He stated he is now managing the portfolio to ensure all regulations and compliance measures are executed in accordance with national laws.