P.U.P. Northern Caucus Calls for Removal of New Northern Region Health Manager

Audibaldo Monima Jr.

The appointment of former coast guard officer Audibaldo Monima as Health Manager for the Northern Region has raised the ire of many within the public health sector, particularly because he is not qualified for the post.  News Five broke that story last Wednesday and since then we have been following up what appears to be a flagrant political appointment within the Ministry of Health.  Earlier today, the People’s United Party, via its Northern Caucus, issued a release demanding that Minister of Health Pablo Marin terminate Monima’s employment because he does not meet the minimum academic requirements for such an important position.  Not only does Monima’s appointment fly in the face of the Public Service regulations but it is also, “disrespectful of every qualified Belizean who has acquired the specialized skills to fill this position.” The P.U.P. release goes on to say that residents of Orange Walk and Corozal towns are wary of Monima’s appointment as they are forced to access inferior health services at the Northern Regional Hospital.  According to the statement, just a week ago that facility was unable to perform surgeries.  The P.U.P. Northern Caucus calls on Minister of Health Pablo Marin and Minister of State Angel Campos to rescind the unconscionable appointment of Audibaldo Monima.