Protocol, Invitations, Patronage and Cards
Official Protocol Relating to the Governor-General
There are special rules of protocol related to the performance of the duties of the Governor-General as the representative Head of State. These privileges and courtesies include holding the right of precedence in Belize on all occasions except when His Majesty the King, or a Member of the Royal Family designated as His Majesty’s Representative to specific State events, is present.
The official title of the Governor-General is: Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam GCMG (Grand Cross of the Order of St. Michael and St. George)
The Governor-General and spouse should be styled as “Your Excellency” or “Your Excellencies” when being spoken to directly. When either the Governor-General or her spouse are being spoken about outside of their presence, they should be styled “Her Excellency” and “His Excellency” respectively.
In conversation, you say:
- Your Excellency (you can also use Governor-General or Ma’am after the first greeting)
Written or Electronic Correspondence
The abbreviated form of addressing the Governor-General in written or electronic correspondence is:
“Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam GCMG”
The address in your correspondence would appear like this:
Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam GCMG
Belize House
P.O Box 173
Belmopan, Belize
Should you wish to address both The Governor-General and her spouse in writing, the correct format is:
- Their Excellencies Dame Froyla Tzalam, Governor-General, and Mr. Daniel Mendez
or
- Their Excellencies The Governor-General and Mr. Daniel Mendez
For ceremonies
The Governor General is the Commander in chief of the Belize Defence Force and Belize Coast Guard. In instances such as an anniversary or passing out parades, protocol dictates that, as the most senior person present, the Governor–General inspects the parade. The organisers have to ask the Governor–General’s permission for another to do so.