Attorney General Comments on Latest Belize/Guatemala Dispute Developments

Michael Peyrefitte

The Guatemalan Government was granted by the International Court of Justice, a six month extension to submit its memorial on its maritime and territorial claim to Belize. Guatemala cited the COVID-19 pandemic, which presented challenges to prepare for its submissions. Belize’s attorneys objected to Guatemala’s request proposing instead a two-month extension, but the I.C.J. went in favour of a six month extension. This means that Belize would file its counter-memorial in June 2022. We asked the Attorney General, Michael Peyrefitte for comment.

Michael Peyrefitte, Attorney General

“It is what it is, the court has granted the extension so we will leave it at that. I generally do not speak about matters in process in court. This is the most important court matter that this country has ever had and I will not start with this one. So the court has made the decision to grant the extension that is it.”

Hipolito Novelo

“But on what basis did Belize’s lawyers object to Guatemala’s request?”

Michael Peyrefitte

“The court has granted the extension brother. That is it.”