Former Belize Minister Erwin Contreras Refuses Senate Committee Appearance Over Controversial Agreement

On May 29, 2024, former Belize Government Minister Erwin Contreras refused to appear before the Senate Special Select Committee to answer questions regarding the 'Definitive Agreement' he signed with Portico Enterprises Limited. The agreement, signed just before the November 2020 general elections, concerns the development of the Port of Magical Belize and includes financial concessions worth hundreds of millions of dollars over a thirty-year period.

Contreras, who previously served Minister of Economic Development and the Cayo West Area Representative, was the only former government minister summoned to explain the rationale behind the agreement. His absence brought the scheduled hearing to a halt, leaving many questions unanswered.

In a public notice, the Senate Special Select Committee expressed its disappointment, stating, "the committee is most disappointed at this information as Mister Contreras has already admitted that he signed the Definitive Agreement which committed the Government and the people of Belize to grant Portico financial concessions worth hundreds of millions of dollars for thirty years."

Why this matters: The refusal of a former government minister to appear before a Senate committee raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government. If left unaddressed, this could lead to a lack of trust in government institutions and undermine the rule of law.

The Port of Magical Belize project, spearheaded by developer David Gegg, remains a contentious issue. Gegg recently testified that the agreement is still enforceable, adding another layer of urgency to the committee's investigation.

Contreras' refusal to attend the hearing has raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the government. The committee has invited Contreras to reconsider his decision and provide the necessary explanations, but no new date for another hearing has been set.

The implications of the 'Definitive Agreement' are significant, as it involves long-term financial commitments that could impact Belize's economy for decades. The committee's investigation aims to shed light on the motivations and circumstances surrounding the agreement's signing.

The situation continues to unfold, and the public and government officials alike await further insight from Contreras. His testimony is essential to understanding the full scope and impact of the agreement with Portico Enterprises Limited.

Key Takeaways

• Erwin Contreras, former Belize Gov't Minister, refused to testify before Senate committee on "Definitive Agreement" with Portico Enterprises.
• The agreement grants Portico financial concessions worth hundreds of millions of dollars over 30 years.
• Contreras' absence raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government.
• The Port of Magical Belize project, led by David Gegg, remains contentious and under investigation.
• The agreement's implications could significantly impact Belize's economy for decades.