Today, what had been rumored for months finally came true: Chester Williams has been named Commissioner of Police.
The 27 year veteran of the department takes over effective tomorrow, according to an official release. But even at noon today, less than an hour before the announcement went out, Williams was still being coy about it. Here's what he told Courtney Weatherburne:
Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police
"I can't say that, I am still the deputy commissioner of police if you see the rank on my shoulder so as it relates to being the commissioner of police I don't know, if or when I get that call then I can say yes. It is the dream of any police officer to rise to the top and become the commissioner of police so if it is offered to me I will surely accept and ensure that I do my best in that capacity."
But despite those denials, for those who cared to notice, the writing was there on the wall from December 31st when the Prime Minister delivered his New Year's message. He said, quote, "2019 will... see a concentrated effort on reform for a more effective Belize Police Department. This reform will start at the very top and permeate throughout all ranks."
Well, that change has come "at the very top" and Chester Williams takes over the department at the age of 44.
Many in the department welcome the change; after all, Whylie had presided for 6 years, which is an extraordinarily long tenure. In fact it is the longest in the history of the Department. You'd have to go back to Commissioner Cavenaugh in 1920 to find one who served more than 5 years, Whylie will have served almost 6.
And while Whylie was known to have what, at best, can be called a conservative, low profile management style, Williams is known for his active, engaged and visible style of leadership.
And he will need all the courage and charisma he can muster because he takes over a department rife with personal rivalries and one that is viewed with distrust by a large section of the public. Both are looking to Williams, the first trained attorney in the seat, for a new beginning and no less than a transformation of the department.
To put it lightly, he's got a lot on his plate, and in the coming days we hope to have an opportunity to ask him how he plans to take all of it on.
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