The Briceño Administration is facing intense scrutiny from the Opposition over its decision to acquire Fortis Inc.’s 33.3% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and its three hydropower plants on the Macal River. The deal, valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, includes the Mollejon, Chalillo, and Vaca hydropower facilities, which collectively supply over one-third of Belize’s electricity. Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton has criticized the government for rushing the transaction without adequate public disclosure, raising concerns about its financial implications for Belizeans. Panton questioned the absence of an independent valuation or regulatory review to justify the acquisition, emphasizing that the lack of transparency could lead to increased national debt and higher electricity costs. The Briceño Administration, however, maintains that the purchase aligns with sound economic policy and plans to introduce a Bill in the House of Representatives to authorize the transaction. Panton has called for the immediate release of all financial documents and asset valuations related to the deal, warning that the government’s plan for a “special budgetary appropriation” could result in more borrowing and a heavier burden on citizens.