A significant upheaval is unfolding within Belize’s carnival community as prominent band leaders have publicly demanded the immediate resignation of the Belize Carnival Association’s executive leadership. The escalating conflict reached a critical point during a press conference where longstanding grievances regarding financial transparency and organizational support were formally articulated.
Band representatives from major groups including Soca Massive, Soca Moca, and Titans Mass Band presented a unified front against the current administration. Their primary concerns center on inconsistent prize distribution practices, with leaders revealing they receive undifferentiated checks without detailed breakdowns of competition category winnings. Veteran band leader Audrey Bradley testified to receiving five different prize amounts despite consistent first-place victories over five consecutive years.
The financial burden on participating bands has become increasingly unsustainable according to testimony. David Matus of Titans Mass Band disclosed investments exceeding $100,000 annually while prize structures have remained stagnant for twenty-eight years. Beyond financial concerns, band leaders cited inadequate security provisions and disrespectful treatment during organizational meetings.
Leroy Smith of Fort Revelers raised accountability questions regarding allegedly unreturned prize money from disqualified participants, calling upon the National Celebrations Commission to provide clarification. The movement has culminated in a formal letter of no confidence signed by multiple band leaders, though the association has dismissed this as procedurally invalid.
In response, Belize Carnival Association President Patrick Thompson maintained his administration would continue leading through Carnival 2026, noting his planned departure after completing his four-year term. Thompson emphasized his twenty-year tenure had elevated the event’s standards and confirmed his executive would proceed with Road March 2026 planning despite the challenges.
The dissenting band leaders emphasize their movement aims to strengthen rather than undermine Belize’s carnival tradition. Denise Young of Belizean Jewels articulated the collective desire for leadership that actively supports participants’ substantial investments and provides meaningful representation for those sustaining the cultural celebration.