For a number of years on the news, we've been showing you those big government cases where Solicitor General Nigel Hawke has been representing Belize. He's been the Government's lead attorney in lawsuits that have gone to the Supreme Court, all the way up to the Caribbean Court of Justice.
But, it seems that Hawke has taken wing, and government's point man on so many cases is gone. And that's because the Barrow Administration will not renew his contract. The press asked the Prime Minister about it this afternoon, and here's what he had to say:
Reporter
"Can you confirm that Nigel Hawke as SolGen is not being renewed."
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"Yes, that is so."
Reporter
"Reason, sir?"
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"The Attorney General who in fact made the recommendation I think simply wanted to move on. Mr. Hawke certainly in terms of my own interaction with him, has been excellent. In terms of the cases that I have had - a particular interest - big cases that have gone to the CCJ, his supporting to the supporting role I thought was all that we could have ask for. So certainly on my part no judgement is to be assumed in consequence of the non-renewal of his contract. But for whatever administrative reasons, whatever his sense of what the fit is that he would like the attorney general made the recommendation that's where its stood, that's where it stands. I think as well also on the part of the attorney general there is animus against Mr. Hawke. Really he is one of the most conscientious hardworking lawyer that I have ever encountered and I certainly wish him the best."
In the new year, Elisa Montalvo, who is currently the acting Sol Gen., will formally take over as the new Solicitor General.
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