In a significant financial milestone, Belize’s national lottery system, Fi We Boledo, has reported impressive earnings in its first year of operation. Prime Minister John Briceño announced during a recent House Meeting that the rebranded lottery generated $123.2 million in sales from April 2024 to March 2025, with $105 million returned to the public as winnings. After accounting for expenses, the government recorded a net profit of $16.7 million. Briceño highlighted that this achievement marks a turning point after the lottery system was previously managed by a ‘UDP crony’ for over a decade, depriving the nation of substantial revenue. The Prime Minister also projected that net earnings could exceed $20 million in the second year, further bolstering public funds. Additionally, the Belize Lottery Limited (BGLL) has contributed $22 million to the National Health Insurance programme, supporting the expansion of healthcare services across the country. This financial success underscores the government’s commitment to reclaiming and optimizing national assets for public benefit.
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How to Watch Isabella Zabaneh in the Miss Universe 2025 Finale
The 74th edition of the Miss Universe pageant reaches its climax tonight, with Belize’s Isabella Zabaneh vying for the coveted crown. Zabaneh, who has garnered immense support from Belizeans both domestically and internationally, aims to break the country’s 46-year placement drought, the last being in 1979. The grand finale, held at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, near Bangkok, Thailand, promises to be a spectacle of beauty and talent. The event will commence at 7:00 p.m. Belize time, with pre-show coverage starting an hour earlier. Viewers can catch the live broadcast on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel. This year’s competition has not been without its share of controversies. A dramatic incident involving Miss Jamaica’s serious fall and the resignation of a judge alleging behind-the-scenes manipulation have added layers of intrigue to the pageant. Despite these challenges, the show continues with a record-breaking 121 contestants participating. Zabaneh’s journey symbolizes hope and national pride for Belize, as she competes against the world’s finest in this prestigious global event.
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Lewis Says Throne Speech “More of the Same,”
Richard Lewis, an opposition Member of Parliament, has sharply criticized this year’s Throne Speech, labeling it as predictable and politically selective. Speaking after the ceremony, Lewis expressed disappointment, stating that the speech failed to provide a balanced overview of Antigua and Barbuda’s development over the past two decades. He described the presentation as a routine recap of the current administration’s performance rather than a meaningful evaluation of the nation’s progress. Lewis argued that the speech disproportionately focused on the period from 2020 to 2025, while neglecting significant achievements attributed to the years when the United Progressive Party (UPP) was in power, particularly from 2004 to 2014. He emphasized that these years included milestones that contributed substantially to the country’s advancement. Lewis attributed the omission to the inherently political nature of Throne Speeches, where each administration traditionally highlights its preferred accomplishments. He acknowledged that while the document outlines the government’s priorities, a more substantive discussion will occur during the parliamentary debate on the national budget in December. Lewis also revealed his intention to address persistent social and infrastructural challenges, including education facilities, water supply, and village roads, which he believes demand urgent attention.
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Major Win for GOB at CCJ
In a landmark decision, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has ruled in favor of the Government of Belize, ending a protracted legal battle with private gas companies over the importation of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The dispute centered on the government’s establishment of the National Gas Company (NGC) in 2020, which centralized LPG imports through Big Creek, effectively granting NGC a monopoly. Private companies, including Western Gas and Zeta Gas, argued that this move dismantled their business models and deprived them of their ‘goodwill.’ The case escalated through Belize’s judicial system before reaching the CCJ. Senior Counsel Eamon Courtney, representing the government, emphasized that the companies failed to prove damages or a breach of their rights. The CCJ’s majority ruling overturned a previous $60 million damages award to the companies, stating that their rights to property, work, and equality were not violated. Justice Jamadar dissented, arguing that the companies suffered immediate losses. The ruling validates the NGC’s monopoly and absolves the government of liability, marking a significant victory for Belize’s energy policy.
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Pierre touts ‘supreme relationship’ with Castries East, highlights investments
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has reiterated his unwavering dedication to the residents of Castries East, emphasizing the profound bond he shares with his constituency. Speaking at a public community meeting in Bagatelle on November 18, Pierre highlighted the transformative impact of his dual role as Prime Minister and parliamentary representative on the daily lives of his constituents. He underscored the government’s efforts to alleviate financial burdens, noting that facility fees are now fully covered for all residents, including those from Marchand and Castries East. Additionally, Pierre announced that CXC exam fees, once a significant concern for parents, are now funded by the government, with plans to expand coverage to five or more subjects. Healthcare access has also seen significant improvements, with free prostate and cervical cancer screenings made available through the Saint Lucia Labour Party’s initiatives. Pierre proudly referenced major infrastructure projects completed under his leadership, such as the Human Resource Development Centre and the Marchand Police Station. He also unveiled a highly anticipated $4 million multipurpose court and community center in Bagatelle, designed to support various sports and community activities. Reaffirming his commitment, Pierre assured residents that ongoing developments aim to enhance their quality of life and promised continued progress as part of his long-term vision for Castries East.
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CCJ wraps regional Referral Sensitization Campaign
From November 2 to 5, 2025, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) conducted a significant awareness-raising mission in Suriname, focusing on its Original Jurisdiction and referral procedures for legal professionals. The initiative was led by the Honourable Mr. Justice Winston Anderson, President of the CCJ, who also engaged in courtesy visits with key Surinamese officials, including the Honourable Mr. Harish Monorath, Minister of Justice and Police, and the Honourable Mr. Justice Iwan Rasoelbaks, President of Suriname’s Court of Justice. The educational workshop, supported by the European Union’s 11th European Development Fund (EDF), aimed to deepen understanding of the CCJ’s role in interpreting and enforcing the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC), which governs CARICOM. The session covered critical areas such as the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework, the integration of the CCJ’s dispute resolution mechanisms into national law, and practical aspects of practicing within the Court’s Original Jurisdiction. As part of the engagement, President Anderson presented the Court’s Original Jurisdiction Rules 2024, translated into Dutch, to Surinamese officials, symbolizing the CCJ’s commitment to enhancing cooperation and improving access to justice within its jurisdiction. This event marked the culmination of a two-year public awareness campaign that had previously been conducted in several other Caribbean nations.
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Internationale dag kinderrechten in een jubeljaar voor Suriname
Today marks a significant occasion as Suriname observes both its 50th anniversary as a republic and the international day for children’s rights. This dual celebration underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering a future where every child is guaranteed love, safety, education, respect, and a healthy environment. As Suriname reflects on five decades of resilience, struggle, and hope, the spotlight turns to the younger generation, who are the architects of the country’s next fifty years. The way children are nurtured today will determine the strength and vitality of Suriname tomorrow.
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More Support for Antigua’s most vulnerable in 2026
In a significant move to bolster its social protection framework, Antigua and Barbuda has announced the expansion of its welfare initiatives targeting vulnerable groups, including the poor, elderly, unemployed, and those displaced by fires. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams unveiled these plans during the Throne Speech on Thursday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering a compassionate and inclusive society.
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Four Charged for Child Sexual Exploitation
In a significant development, four individuals have been arrested and charged in Independence Village, Belize, for their alleged involvement in the commercial sexual exploitation of a female minor. The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs confirmed the charges in a press release issued on November 20, 2025. The accused include Belizean nationals Oscar Diaz, Maria Arias, Ramona Cucul, and Guatemalan national Gloria Rodriguez. They face charges of facilitating child prostitution and were arraigned in the Independence Magistrate Court. All four were released on bail set at $6,000 plus one surety, with the case adjourned to February 11, 2026. This incident highlights a broader issue in Belize, where human trafficking remains a pressing concern. In 2024 alone, police investigated 18 cases of human trafficking, with seven out of eight ongoing cases involving women, four of whom were minors. The Ministry has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected trafficking activities to authorities. Reports can be made to the police at 911, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons (ATIP) unit, the Department of Human Services, or Crime Stoppers Belize at 922.
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Dominica’s Fort Young Hotel tops five categories for scuba diving mag Reader’s Choice Awards
Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, a historic landmark nestled in Roseau, the capital of Dominica, has recently achieved remarkable recognition by securing five awards in the 2026 Reader’s Choice Awards hosted by Scuba Diving Magazine. The resort was honored with accolades for Best Overall, Quality of Resort, Quality of Staff, Quality of Rooms, and Value of Resort. These awards underscore the resort’s commitment to excellence and its reputation as a premier destination for diving enthusiasts worldwide. Ronson Dalyrample, the General Manager, expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing that these awards reflect the voices of divers globally. He highlighted the resort’s passionate dive team, authentic Dominican hospitality, and unparalleled location as key factors that make every stay exceptional. Dominica, often referred to as the ‘Nature Island,’ is renowned for its breathtaking underwater landscapes, featuring towering pinnacles, steep drop-offs, and vibrant marine life. Fort Young offers guests access to iconic dive sites such as Nose Reef and Pole to Pole, complemented by personalized service. In a strategic move to enhance its offerings, the resort has added a new 36-foot vessel, Glorieux, to its fleet. This Caribbean Macorix boat can accommodate up to 22 divers or 30 passengers, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. Additionally, Fort Young is currently promoting its Dive Getaway Special in collaboration with DEMA, offering a range of amenities and activities for travelers until January 2026. For more information and bookings, visitors are encouraged to visit the resort’s official website.