Oscar Mira Remains Active in Belmopan While on Cabinet Leave

More than two months after stepping away from Cabinet, Belmopan Area Representative Oscar Mira says his political and constituency work continues. Mira was granted a leave of absence on June 22 amid an audit into procurement transactions at the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security. Speaking with our Belmopan correspondent, Mira explained that, while he is not currently carrying out ministerial duties, he remains active on the ground in the capital.

Mira surrendered the Home Affairs portfolio when he proceeded on leave, and Minister Julius Espat was appointed to oversee the ministry in the interim. Since taking over, Espat has focused on improving police facilities, strengthening officers’ morale and securing additional resources and equipment for the department. Mira gave his assessment of the work being carried out at Home Affairs and also addressed the ongoing Defence Ministry audit. His initial leave was expected to cover the audit’s three-month duration, but Mira says an extension remains possible.

Mira’s leave followed public scrutiny over government payments made through the Defence Ministry to businesses connected to members of his family. The Auditor General was subsequently directed to review the procurement processes involved. While Mira remains outside Cabinet, he continues serving as the elected representative for Belmopan.