Thirty-three independent bus operators across Belize have formally split from the longstanding Belize Bus Association (BBA) to launch a new, industry-led advocacy group, citing deep frustration with the former body’s growing partisan political alignment that they claim has sidelined the needs of both transport workers and daily commuters. The newly named United Bus Operators Association (UBOA) unveiled its official founding in a November 4, 2026 public press release, backdated to November 11, 2026 to mark a symbolic future date for targeted sector-wide improvements, and counts members that previously made up more than 70% of the BBA’s total registered operator base. In its founding statement, the UBOA leadership outlined that years of mounting dissatisfaction with the BBA’s shifting priorities pushed the majority of its former membership to secede, as the older association increasingly prioritized partisan political activities and decisions over addressing core operational and service gaps that impact the entire public transport ecosystem. The new association’s founding charter explicitly commits to a fully non-partisan operating model, requiring all members to set aside their individual personal political affiliations to collectively advocate for the shared interests of every operator and the travelling public. UBOA representatives noted that the group was created to fill a critical gap for an independent, unaligned voice for the bus transport sector, one that holds formal decision-making power to shape the long-term trajectory of Belize’s public transit network without outside political interference. Top priorities laid out by the fledgling association include rolling out concrete measures to deliver safer, more punctual bus routes, securing fairer licensing and operating conditions for small and medium bus operators, and building more responsive systems to resolve commuter complaints in a timely, transparent manner. The group has extended an open invitation to all remaining independent bus operators, including those still affiliated with the BBA, to join its collaborative efforts to resolve longstanding systemic challenges that have plagued Belize’s public transport system for decades. UBOA leadership also emphasized their willingness to engage in constructive, good-faith partnerships with the Government of Belize, national transport regulatory bodies, commuter advocacy groups, and cross-sector stakeholders to drive tangible, inclusive improvements. The statement highlighted that reliable public bus services form the backbone of access for millions of Belizeans to critical opportunities including formal employment, K-12 and higher education, essential healthcare appointments, and community services, making transit upgrades a core national priority rather than a niche industry concern. The association further pledged to contribute actively to upcoming government-led initiatives to modernize Belize’s public transport network, arguing that both operators and regular commuters have long been excluded from key industry policy discussions, and deserve equal, fair representation in all decisions that shape the future of the sector.