BELIZE CITY – Under intense police surveillance, the United Democratic Party (UDP) launched its second major demonstration on Thursday, targeting the Social Security Board’s (SSB) involvement in Belize Telemedia Limited’s (BTL) proposed $80 million acquisition of Speednet.
The protest unfolded outside the SSB headquarters where UDP supporters gathered from 9:00 AM, brandishing placards demanding transparency and opposing the telecommunications merger they warn could negatively impact workers and national contributors. The demonstration occurred despite authorities relocating the SSB’s scheduled meeting to Belmopan, a move opposition leaders characterized as evasive.
Opposition Leader Tracy Panton emphasized the fundamental right of citizens to voice concerns regarding SSB funds. “Our people don’t get a chance to opt out of paying their social security contributions monthly,” Panton stated. “It is our attempt to get the board members to hear from the people whose money they wish to use for private gains.”
Tensions escalated when police detained Brian ‘Yellowman’ Audinette, Mesopotamia area campaign commander, prior to the protest’s official commencement. The detention prompted strong reactions from UDP officials, with Mesopotamia Representative Lee Mark Chang accusing authorities of employing “trumped up charges” to suppress dissent.
The situation intensified as protesters initially breached permitted boundaries, obstructing traffic flow and prompting formal warnings from Senior Superintendent Reymundo Reyes. Despite these tensions, both protestors and police largely maintained restraint, avoiding major confrontations.
The UDP’s demonstration gained notable momentum with the appearance of Hugo Patt, Corozal North Representative, who joined the march in a rare show of party unity. Multiple UDP representatives from across the country converged on the event, signaling broad opposition to the telecommunications consolidation.
Protesters eventually shifted their focus to secure Audinette’s release, marching to Belcan Bridge and temporarily blocking traffic. The demonstration concluded successfully from the UDP’s perspective when Audinette was released and greeted as a hero by cheering supporters.
The ongoing protests represent growing political resistance to the BTL-Speednet merger, with opposition figures framing the issue as a fundamental matter of governmental transparency and fiscal responsibility.