BELIZE’S Chief Justice, Louise Esther Blenman, delivered a keynote address at the Caribbean Court of Justice’s (CCJ) Academy for Law conference, emphasising Belize’s pioneering efforts in reforming the criminal justice system.
Speaking at the two-day event on Wednesday, Chief Justice Blenman underscored the significance of the Needham’s Point Declaration in addressing critical issues and enhancing the administration of justice.
The Needham’s Point Declaration covers key areas related to criminal justice reform, including policy and legislative interventions, prosecution, police representation for the accused victims’ rights and judicial interventions. The declaration emphasises the need for swift justice for the guilty and protection of the innocent.

Chief Justice Blenman candidly addressed the challenges faced by Belize’s criminal justice system, particularly noting significant delays and backlogs at various judicial stages.
She highlighted prolonged preliminary inquiries in the Magistrates’ Court, often taking up to two years, exacerbated by inadequate police-prepared case files and frequent adjournments.
“In Belize, cases of murder, manslaughter, and sexual offences are tried solely by judges, with written decisions mandated by law,” Chief Justice Blenman explained. “Despite this, delays in rendering judgments have been observed, and criminal appeals from lower courts have been left unaddressed.”

Chief Justice Blenman expressed concern over extended delays caused by slow processing of social inquiry and psychiatric reports, contributing to inefficiencies that disproportionately affect remand populations.
She emphasised that these delays undermine effective access to justice, with remand detainees comprising half of Belize’s prison population.
The Needham’s Point Declaration, according to Chief Justice Blenman, has provided a pivotal framework for dismantling barriers and transforming mindsets within the justice system, without necessitating additional financial resources.
She highlighted the declaration’s role in guiding strategic initiatives aimed at improving case management and reducing backlog.

Reflecting on Belize’s judicial audit, Chief Justice Blenman revealed alarming findings of criminal cases languishing for up to twelve years in the High Court and six years in the Court of Appeal. In response, her office collaborated with stakeholders to formulate a strategic plan focused on judiciary-led initiatives and backlog reduction.

Acknowledging the judiciary’s limited authority over independent bodies within the justice system, Chief Justice Blenman stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to address systemic challenges.
She credited the establishment of the permanent Criminal Justice Board in December 2023 as instrumental in fostering dialogue and coordination among stakeholders from diverse fields.
“The Criminal Justice Board, comprising representatives from various sectors, has been pivotal in promoting collaboration and accountability across different silos,” Chief Justice Blenman stated. “Joint responsibility and structured dialogue have been essential in identifying causes of backlog and proposing constructive solutions.”

Chief Justice Blenman concluded optimistically, noting a cultural shift towards a more collaborative approach in criminal litigation, prioritising justice over adversarial processes. She expressed confidence that ongoing reforms, guided by the Needham’s Point Declaration, would lead to a more efficient and responsive criminal justice system in Belize.
“As we continue to implement the declaration’s standards, I am optimistic that delays in the criminal justice system will soon be a thing of the past,” Chief Justice Blenman affirmed. “Belize remains committed to leveraging these transformative principles to ensure equitable access to justice for all.”
The CCJ’s Academy for Law’s ongoing commitment to advancing legal reforms in the Caribbean, exemplified by the Needham’s Point Declaration, continues to shape regional approaches to judicial efficiency and fairness.