And the final leadership post that the Public Service Minister was asked about yesterday concerned the new Governor of the Central Bank of Belize. Deputy Governor Kareem Michael has been selected for the job. As we told you, that's after the bank went almost half a year without one, when the PM's handpicked choice, Manuel Vasquez, left in a costly conflict.
Here's what Usher had to say about the new Governor - who, as the Prime Minister has said, comes from a family with strong UDP roots:
Reporter
"We've heard that some within your own party are not happy with his selection because he comes from a "UDP family". Was he the only qualified individual for the post, in your opinion? And secondly, do you believe that he will get along with the Ministry of Finance and special finance and economic sector interests that Mr. Gustavo Manuel Vasquez said that he faced stiff opposition from."
Hon. Henry Charles Usher - Minister of Public Service
"Well, I can tell you that the search for the replacement for the Central Bank Governor was done principally by the Prime Minister, by his team at the Ministry of Finance, and they feel satisfied that Mr. Michael is up for the job. So, I will respect the decision of the Prime Minister. Certainly, in terms of their relationship, if they feel that he's qualified and can work with them, then I will have to go with what they say."
