In a heated session in the House of Representatives, opposition leader Tracy Panton strongly criticized the Belizean government’s decision to nationalize Fortis, raising concerns about the potential impact on electricity costs for citizens. Panton argued that the nationalization of Fortis would not automatically lead to cheaper electricity for Belizeans. She referenced recent statements by Prime Minister John Briceño, suggesting that if the government had focused as much on reducing electricity costs as it did on negotiating the Fortis deal, Belizeans might have seen tangible financial relief. Panton emphasized the importance of transparency, urging the government to clearly explain the benefits of the $260 million loan arrangement to the public. She highlighted the significant role energy costs play for residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, including tourism, and called for meaningful efforts to address the high cost of energy in the country. The debate underscores growing concerns about the economic implications of the Fortis nationalization and its potential burden on Belizean households and businesses.
Panton Questions Economic Impact of Fortis Nationalization on Electricity Costs
