The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) has escalated its confrontation with the Ministry of Education over unresolved salary issues. On Monday, BNTU President Nadia Caliz publicly criticized Education Minister Oscar Requena for his explanation regarding missing teacher payments. Requena attributed the unpaid salaries to deductions for advance payments made in December 2024, a claim Caliz vehemently denied, labeling it as deeply disrespectful to educators. Caliz emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting instances where teachers are struggling to meet basic needs such as rent and utilities due to the payment delays. She also questioned the Ministry’s handling of incremental allowances, pointing out that many teachers have yet to receive their due payments. The union has demanded immediate resolution, warning of potential industrial action if the matter is not addressed promptly. Caliz expressed concern that this issue mirrors past payment delays in November 2023 and December 2024, urging accountability and swift action to prevent further hardship for Belize’s educators.