BELIZE RURAL SOUTH – Political tensions have intensified in Belize’s coastal constituencies following sharp exchanges between Area Representative Andre Perez and UDP caretaker Gabriel Zetina. The conflict centers on the newly inaugurated San Pedro Artisan Market, which Perez champions as a vital economic development project while accusing Zetina of undermining it for political gain.
Perez vehemently defended the market initiative during recent remarks, characterizing Zetina’s criticism as exhibiting a ‘blue Koncas’ mentality – a local political term suggesting destructive opposition tactics. ‘We are uplifting these vendors to go to a better place,’ Perez stated, highlighting the market’s potential to enhance local livelihoods through improved facilities compared to previous substandard vending conditions.
The representative further addressed separate allegations regarding his engagement with Caye Caulker constituents, dismissing claims of insufficient presence as ‘a pile of hogwash.’ Perez detailed multiple visits to the island since January, emphasizing his involvement in educational planning and infrastructure projects.
Concurrently, Perez advanced educational developments on Caye Caulker, meeting with Ministry of Education officials at Ocean Academy High School to coordinate construction timelines for new primary and secondary school facilities. The project, expected to span the upcoming academic year, includes plans to formally rename the institution as Caye Caulker Government High School upon completion, signaling institutional maturation and governmental commitment to island education.
Perez confirmed ongoing discussions regarding temporary structures to minimize educational disruption during construction, with potential solutions including auxiliary facilities at the existing Catholic school property. Community response to these developments has been broadly positive according to the representative, who anticipates the new campus will be operational by the next school year.