A significant political confrontation has emerged in Belize following revelations about Mexican billionaire Raul Rocha Cantu’s involvement in the country’s investment sector. The United Democratic Party (UDP) has launched severe criticism against the current administration for its alleged failure to conduct proper due diligence on foreign investors.
Rocha Cantu, currently under investigation by Mexican specialized prosecutors for serious criminal activities including fuel and arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and connections to organized crime, had reportedly secured a strategic position in Belize’s Dangriga Port Project. In May 2025, his Mexico-based Legacy Group announced its formal engagement to lead the conceptual and technical oversight of the new state-of-the-art port facility.
This development followed a meeting between Belize’s Prime Minister and Rocha Cantu to discuss trade and investment opportunities. However, Southern Deep Port Development Limited has since distanced itself from the Mexican investor, claiming that while discussions occurred, no formal partnership was established and that Legacy Holdings’ website contained unauthorized information.
Godwin Haylock, Area Representative for Queen Square, delivered a scathing assessment: “The reality is that this government is in a feeding frenzy to eat up every business opportunity for themselves.” He highlighted Rocha Cantu’s alleged connections to the tragic Casino Royal attack in Monterey that claimed fifty-two lives, questioning why any responsible government would engage with an individual sought by Mexican authorities.
The opposition argues that the government’s desperation for foreign investment has compromised national security protocols, with no concerning information reportedly emerging from the Financial Intelligence Unit or Special Branch investigations.