Tensions escalated dramatically in Belize City today as supporters of the United Democratic Party (UDP) mobilized outside the Social Security Board (SSB) headquarters to vehemently oppose Belize Telemedia Limited’s prospective takeover of telecommunications provider Speednet/SMART.
The demonstration rapidly evolved into a tense standoff with law enforcement personnel, with UDP protesters making four separate attempts to breach the secured perimeter of the SSB compound. The party’s central argument maintains that the acquisition would consolidate excessive market control within BTL’s dominion while exposing critical Social Security funds to unwarranted financial jeopardy. Participants condemned the government’s alleged lack of transparency and inadequate public consultation throughout the negotiation process.
Prior to the full mobilization of protesters, police authorities detained prominent UDP organizer Brian “Yellowman” Audinett within the Mesopotamia Division, holding him at Queen Street Police Station throughout the morning hours. His legal representative, attorney Orson Elrington, contested that Audinett was “being detained for being a member of a gang” while coordinating demonstration participants.
Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado firmly refuted these allegations, characterizing them as “the furthest from the truth.” Commissioner Rosado clarified to news outlets that Audinett’s detention resulted from allegations of inciting violence through electronic communications earlier that day, confirming an ongoing investigation into the matter.
Following his release by midday, Audinett rejoined protesters on Belcan Bridge where UDP leader Tracy Panton had rallied supporters demanding his freedom. Audinett denied issuing any violent threats, insisting the protest was intended to be entirely peaceful and challenging authorities to “Bring the evidence that I sent any text or anything on Facebook that we will have any kind of violence.”
The UDP organizer announced intentions to pursue legal action against the police department before protesters concluded their demonstration at the SSB headquarters.