Is There Any Update from O.A.S. in Chiquibul Shooting?

Eamon Courtenay

And finally, in our coverage of the Istanbul talks, we asked Courtenay about the ongoing investigation into that Chiquibul incident. The OAS launched one at the request of Guatemalan authorities, but since then no information has been forthcoming.

Eamon Courtenay, Opposition’s Representative, Belize Delegation

“My understanding is that the O.A.S. is taking the steps necessary to have that investigation carried out. It is not complete as I understand it. Experts are being brought on board to do certain forensic investigations, and that is where that is. It is not complete as I understand it.”

Mike Rudon

“And in terms of that incident around which the investigation is centered, what was the demeanor of the Guatemalans? I know that they have come out before very vocally and have condemned Belize outright. Was that the same spirit seen at that meeting?”

Eamon Courtenay

“I would say that is still their position. They seem to be very hurt and affected by the fact that it was a minor. They seem to be very hurt by the fact that there were multiple shots. But I think that while they were very strong and clear in their position, it was not as strident as it has been in the past. The Foreign Minister of Guatemala put his points across very clearly and I would say that Minister Elrington also made clear that there is no need and no place for pre-judging what has happened. There is an investigation that is ongoing and let us await the results of that investigation before anyone starts casting aspersions.”