In a significant development, social activist Jeremy Enriquez has successfully challenged the Attorney General’s (AG) Ministry over its refusal to disclose taxpayer spending on legal fees in recent constitutional cases. Enriquez had filed a Freedom of Information (FOIA) request seeking details on the expenditure and the attorneys involved. The AG’s Ministry initially denied the request, citing potential risks to the Government of Belize and concerns over compromising ongoing cases. Unwilling to accept this response, Enriquez escalated the matter to the Ombudsman, who ruled in his favor. The Ombudsman determined that the AG’s Ministry had violated the FOIA by withholding the information and mandated the release of the requested data within 14 days. Enriquez expressed optimism that the Ministry would comply but warned of potential legal action if the deadline is not met. This case underscores ongoing tensions between government transparency and public accountability in Belize.
分类： politics
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Where is the money coming from?
As the nation prepares for upcoming general elections, scrutiny intensifies over the government’s 2025 budget allocations. A critical question emerges: where is the funding coming from? This analysis delves into specific expenditures, raising concerns about the sources of increased budgetary allocations across various sectors.
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Caribbean movements unite against U.S. intervention on “Day of Collective Action”
The Assembly of the Peoples of the Caribbean (APC) has designated October 16 as a ‘Day of Collective Action,’ rallying Caribbean governments to stand united against U.S. military deployments and interventionist threats in Venezuela. The organization also opposes the proposed exclusion of Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua from the upcoming Summit of the Americas. Through its Regional Executive Committee, the APC has called upon citizens, social movements, and progressive leaders to defend the Caribbean as a ‘zone of peace’ and resist foreign interference. This stance aligns with the positions of CARICOM, CELAC, and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), all of which emphasize sovereignty and regional integration. In a strongly worded statement, the APC criticized U.S. policies in Latin America, labeling them as extensions of imperialist agendas aimed at controlling regional resources, particularly Venezuela’s oil reserves. The organization also condemned the U.S. blockade against Cuba, a policy widely rejected by the United Nations, and criticized the Dominican Republic’s decision to exclude Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua from the December 2025 Summit of the Americas. The APC urged Caribbean leaders, especially those in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and the Dominican Republic, to distance themselves from what it termed ‘U.S. aggression’ in the region. The declaration concluded with a call for unity, solidarity, and mobilization to protect Caribbean sovereignty, peace, and self-determination.
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Opposition Calls for Increase in Constituency Allowance, EC$ 2000 too low, they say
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle and All Saints East and St. Luke MP Richard Lewis have urged the government to increase the constituency allowance, arguing that the current allocation of $2,000 is inadequate to address the needs of their constituents. During a recent parliamentary session, Lewis emphasized that Members of Parliament require sufficient resources to fulfill their duties effectively. He proposed raising the allowance to $5,000, a figure he deemed more realistic for covering community-related expenses. Lewis highlighted the unique challenges faced by Antigua, stating, ‘We don’t have the kind of resources to do what other islands do, but we can do something, and it will benefit all of us.’ He stressed that the issue transcends political affiliations, advocating for fairness and equity for future MPs. Pringle echoed this sentiment, calling for a more equitable distribution of state resources if the allowance is not increased. Both MPs pointed out that the current allowance hampers their ability to assist constituents with minor repairs, community projects, and social support. Prime Minister Gaston Browne acknowledged the concerns and indicated that the request could be reviewed, though he cautioned that any adjustments must align with the country’s fiscal constraints.
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Panton on Anti-Shyne Ads: ‘It wasn’t me.’
Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton has publicly distanced herself from a series of political advertisements targeting UDP Leader Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow. In a formal statement released on October 16, 2025, Panton emphasized that she had no role in the creation, funding, or dissemination of these ads, which have been critical of Barrow’s leadership. She further clarified that she neither authorized nor endorsed any paid political content attacking fellow UDP members, stating that such actions do not align with her leadership style or values. Panton called for unity and constructive dialogue as the UDP prepares for its National Convention on November 30, where a new leadership team will be elected. The controversial ads have accused Barrow of fostering a ‘hostile, angry, accusatory, punitive, and isolated’ leadership environment. Earlier in September, Barrow hinted that his recent State of the Nation address might be his last as UDP leader, pledging to collaborate with his successor and the Belizean people to hold the government accountable and work toward a better future. The upcoming convention will determine key positions, including Party Leader and Deputy Leaders.
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Opposition Questions Government’s Transparency in BEL and Hydro Plant Deal
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.
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America’s top military man in the region announces retirement
In a surprising turn of events, Vice Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), has announced his retirement, effective December 12, 2025. This decision comes just one year into his tenure as commander, raising questions about the timing and underlying reasons for his departure. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the news in a social media post on X, praising Holsey for his 37 years of dedicated service to the US Navy. Holsey, who assumed command in November 2024, previously served as the deputy commander of SOUTHCOM. His retirement follows a series of high-profile military actions in the Caribbean, including multiple strikes against alleged drug cartels and recent operations off the coast of Venezuela. These actions, authorized by President Donald Trump, have drawn scrutiny for their legal ambiguity and strategic implications. Holsey’s departure also coincides with broader leadership changes within the US military, as Hegseth has replaced several senior officers since taking office. In a statement on X, Holsey expressed gratitude for his role, emphasizing the SOUTHCOM team’s contributions to national defense. The US Navy and SOUTHCOM have yet to comment on the circumstances surrounding his retirement.
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Gov’t to crack down on online gambling, betting shops
In a decisive move to address growing societal concerns, Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced on Thursday, October 16, 2025, that the government will implement stricter regulations and impose higher taxes on online gambling and betting shops. This decision comes in response to widespread complaints that gambling activities are diverting essential income away from families, particularly affecting single parents and breadwinners. Jagdeo emphasized that the proliferation of gambling apps and hundreds of betting shops across the country has created a ‘major social problem,’ leading to family breakdowns and financial hardships. He highlighted that the government has already signaled its intent to curb this issue, citing the negative impact on communities. Additionally, Jagdeo noted that the religious community has raised concerns about the detrimental effects of habitual gambling on livelihoods. The Vice President also mentioned that while licensed casinos at two hotels remain accessible to registered guests, the new measures aim to discourage excessive gambling by increasing taxes on online platforms. The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the socio-economic challenges posed by the gambling industry.
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MP’s From Both Sides Back New Regional Authority to Police Citizenship by Investment Program
In a historic display of bipartisan cooperation, opposition and government Members of Parliament in Antigua and Barbuda came together on Thursday to ratify the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) Agreement and pass the ECCIRA Bill 2025. This landmark legislation formalizes a regional framework designed to harmonize and strengthen oversight of citizenship by investment (CBI) programs across the Eastern Caribbean. The agreement, initially signed in September by Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia, establishes ECCIRA as a centralized authority to regulate and monitor CBI initiatives. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who introduced the measures, hailed the move as a “historic turning point” for the region’s investment migration sector. He emphasized that the framework would set a “global gold standard” for transparency, accountability, and security. The new authority will monitor promoters, agents, and due-diligence providers, maintain a regional register of licensed service providers, enforce sanctions of up to US$250,000 for regulatory breaches, and coordinate with CARICOM IMPACS and other international bodies. Additionally, ECCIRA will promote risk-based auditing, publish annual transparency reports, and spearhead regional training to enhance compliance and investigative capabilities. The governance structure includes a Council of Ministers from each member state and a nine-member board with representatives from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, OECS Commission, and CARICOM IMPACS. Opposition MPs supported the initiative, praising it as essential for protecting the region’s reputation and investor confidence. The unanimous approval of both the treaty and the bill underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to regional cooperation and self-regulation. Prime Minister Browne concluded, “This is about sustainability and protecting our people’s interests. It shows that, as a region, we are capable of integrity, accountability, and collective leadership.”
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Pringle Calls for Clarity on Public Accounts Committee Rules; AG Promises Review
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has raised significant concerns in Parliament regarding procedural gaps affecting the operations of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). During the House of Representatives session on October 16, 2025, Pringle emphasized the urgent need for clarity on the committee’s legal standing and the rules governing its oversight functions. He pointed out that the rules of procedure for the PAC, which he presented to Parliament in July, remain unratified. Additionally, the Standing Orders—the official guide to parliamentary operations—do not mention the PAC, creating uncertainty about its proper functioning. Pringle stressed the importance of establishing clear guidelines to ensure the committee’s effectiveness. In response, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin acknowledged the oversight and committed to initiating a formal review. He assured that the government is dedicated to strengthening the PAC’s framework to enhance transparency and accountability. The PAC, chaired by Pringle, is Parliament’s primary financial oversight body, tasked with scrutinizing government spending to ensure the appropriate use of taxpayers’ money. Pringle has been advocating for public meetings of the PAC to further promote transparency. Benjamin stated that the review process would involve consultations with parliamentary staff and an examination of Hansard records to ensure adherence to proper parliamentary procedures.