The National Evangelical Association of Belize (NEAB) has voiced significant apprehensions regarding the forthcoming Caye Caulker Referendum on marijuana legalization. The Church contends that the government’s decision to proceed with a local vote contradicts its prior commitment to conduct a national referendum first. This development follows a historic grassroots effort in April 2022, when NEAB mobilized to gather 23,000 registered voter signatures in just three weeks—a record for Belize—to initiate a nationwide vote on the issue. At the time, the government cited financial constraints as the reason for delaying the referendum, pledging that no action would be taken without a national mandate. NEAB argues that the current local referendum, driven by a mere 350 signatures, violates this promise. The Church has also criticized the involvement of the Minister of Police, who oversees both law enforcement and New Growth Industries, including the promotion of marijuana legalization. NEAB labeled this dual role as a “blatant conflict of interest,” emphasizing the link between marijuana and escalating gang violence and crime in Belize City. The Church reiterated its 2022 warnings about drug-related violence and cartel activity, pointing to the recent surge in automatic weapon use on the streets. NEAB further highlighted the Minister’s acknowledgment of increased marijuana imports, consumption, and gang conflicts. Additionally, the Church cautioned that a cash-based marijuana market could foster illicit activities and money laundering, potentially jeopardizing Belize’s robust international banking reputation. In January 2025, Belize achieved a 38 out of 40 score for adherence to AML/CFT/CPF standards from the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force—a credibility NEAB fears could be undermined by legalization. The Church concluded with a call for societal vigilance, stating, ‘Strong families produce strong individuals, strong communities, and a strong nation. May God help us wake up from delusional promises by politicians seeking to benefit from increased drug use.’
分类： society
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Caye Caulker Cannabis Revenue Model Projects Over $10 Million Annually
A groundbreaking proposal for Caye Caulker, Belize, suggests that legalizing and regulating cannabis production and sales could generate over $10 million in annual tax revenues, positioning the island as a pivotal hub for the nation’s cannabis industry. Conservative estimates indicate that local consumption alone could yield $413,000 annually, based on a price of $6.75 per gram plus tax. With a quarter of the island’s 2,729 residents consuming 10 grams three times weekly, total annual consumption would reach 979,200 grams. Tourism further amplifies this potential, as approximately 17,000 overnight visitors consuming at the same rate could contribute an additional $74,266.87 yearly. The proposal envisions Caye Caulker as the central point for all legally produced, tested, and sold cannabis in Belize. If just one-eighth of the national population—around 52,463 people—consumed cannabis at this rate, the country could earn an extra $10 million in tax revenues annually. However, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Belize City–Belmopan has voiced strong opposition, citing moral and spiritual concerns. The Church warns that legalization could normalize drug use, harm youth, damage families, threaten public health, and undermine tourism. The referendum, scheduled for October 8, will determine the island’s path forward.
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Man Acquitted of Rape After Jury Finds Him Not Guilty
In a high-profile case at the High Court, a man accused of rape has been acquitted following a four-hour deliberation by a mixed jury. The case, which originated from an alleged incident on 30 March 2020, centered on conflicting testimonies. The complainant alleged that she was assaulted after becoming intoxicated during a night out, while resting in a vehicle. However, the accused’s girlfriend, who was present at the time, testified that no such assault occurred. Prosecutors argued that a subsequent sexual encounter was non-consensual, but the defense countered that it was consensual. During the trial, inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements, including the timing of a text message she claimed to have sent that night, were highlighted. After hearing closing arguments, the jury unanimously found the defendant not guilty of both rape and serious indecency. The verdict has sparked discussions about the complexities of such cases and the challenges in establishing consent and credibility.
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Bail Granted to Two Men Accused in Sanderson Estate Shooting
Two individuals implicated in a violent altercation at Sanderson Estate earlier this month have been granted bail as they await further court proceedings. Brian Benjamin, 59, from All Saints, and Bryan Benjamin, 32, from Swetes, appeared before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, who scheduled the next hearing for December 4, 2025. The charges against them stem from an incident on October 1, where a farm dispute escalated into a shooting, leaving two men with gunshot wounds. Both Benjamins face charges of assault, wounding, and battery against Jace Farrell. Additionally, Brian Benjamin is charged with shooting with intent to murder Simon Farrell, while Bryan Benjamin is accused of using threatening language. The injured men are currently hospitalized in stable condition. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and have urged the public to resolve disputes through legal and non-violent means.
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Public encouraged to comment on new standards
The Grenada Bureau of Standards is nearing the completion of its initiative to establish updated national standards for toilet tissue and hollow blocks. The public is invited to review and provide feedback on the draft standards from October 6 to December 5, 2025. These new standards aim to replace the existing mandatory regulations for these products, ensuring alignment with international benchmarks and addressing modern manufacturing practices. For toilet tissue, the draft specifies that the product must be made from virgin, chemical, or mechanical pulp, or secondary fibers derived from recycled paper. The tissue must be unglazed, soft, flexible, and free from defects such as wood splinters, specks, or wrinkles. Similarly, the standards for hollow blocks emphasize proper curing to ensure the required strength before dispatch, with the Bureau retaining the right to conduct independent sampling. Amiesha Persaud, head of standardization at the Grenada Bureau of Standards, highlighted that the current standards, which have been in place for many years, no longer reflect the latest international norms. She noted that manufacturers and other stakeholders were actively involved in the review process. The draft standards and comment forms are available on the bureau’s social media platforms, with submissions accepted electronically or via email to the Director by December 5.
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Rebuilding the Foundation: Call Grows for National Men’s Movement to Restore Family and Faith in The Bahamas
The Bahamas, a nation celebrated for its beauty and culture, is grappling with a profound societal issue: the alarming absence of strong male figures in families and communities. This crisis, deeply rooted in the decline of traditional family structures, has far-reaching consequences for the nation’s social fabric. Statistics reveal that 65% of live births in The Bahamas are to single mothers, with fathers often absent or unacknowledged. This phenomenon has led to generations of young men who are disengaged, directionless, and, in many cases, a threat to society. Many end up as high school dropouts, incarcerated, or tragically lost to violence or justice evasion.
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Richard Lewis Thanks Ministry of Works for Road Repairs in Hatton
Residents of Hatton in St. John’s Rural West are breathing a sigh of relief following the completion of critical road repairs in the area. Richard S. Lewis, Member of Parliament for the constituency, has publicly expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Works and its dedicated road crew for their efforts in addressing the long-standing issue. The repairs, which targeted a section of road west of Martin’s Shop leading to the Spanish Church of God of Prophecy, have been a focal point of community concern for months. Lewis revealed that he had previously utilized his own resources to provide temporary solutions for the deteriorating road conditions. However, after persistent advocacy earlier this year, the Ministry of Works fulfilled its commitment to undertake the necessary repairs. In a heartfelt statement, Lewis commended the Ministry and its crew, stating, ‘The Ministry has delivered relief. We are indeed grateful for the roadworks done to date and look forward to continued relief throughout the constituency.’ The MP also pledged to continue pushing for further infrastructure improvements across St. John’s Rural West, emphasizing the importance of sustained development for the well-being of the community.
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Cop summoned by defence contradicts Too Cool’s evidence
In a dramatic turn of events during the trial of popular DJ Christopher ‘Too Cool Chris’ Jones, a police officer’s testimony has contradicted the defendant’s account of a shooting incident in Kingstown. Police Constable Jahshem Lynch, who was summoned by the defense, testified that he witnessed the shooting but disputed crucial details provided by Jones. Lynch stated that Jones did not cross the street during the incident nor stand over the victim after firing three shots, directly opposing Jones’s claim of self-defense. The prosecution has argued that the shooting was malicious and that Jones should be found guilty. Senior Magistrate Tamika McKenzie is expected to deliver her verdict on December 10, though she may announce it earlier. Lynch, who has served as a police officer for eight years, provided two statements regarding the incident. He recounted hearing a death threat from the victim, Kevin Patterson, moments before the shooting occurred. Lynch also described the chaotic scene that followed, including the gathering of a crowd and the arrival of other officers. Despite his detailed account, Lynch admitted he did not report the shooting immediately and only prepared statements upon request. The trial continues to unfold as both sides present their evidence, with the court awaiting the final decision.
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Suspect wanted for attempted armed robbery Surrenders to Police
In a significant development in Antigua and Barbuda, 19-year-old Elahim Bloodman, who was wanted in connection with an attempted robbery at a local convenience store, voluntarily surrendered to the police on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. Bloodman, a resident of Grays Farm, turned himself in at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) accompanied by family members. He is currently in police custody, aiding investigators with their ongoing inquiries.
The incident occurred earlier that morning at approximately 9:54 a.m., when a lone male entered the store allegedly armed with what appeared to be a firearm. The store owner promptly raised an alarm, prompting the suspect to flee the scene on foot along New Street. The swift response from the public and media played a crucial role in the investigation, leading to Bloodman’s eventual surrender.
The Police Administration has expressed gratitude to the community and media for their cooperation and assistance during the investigation. Authorities have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals by contacting the CID at 462-3913, 911, or the nearest police station.
This case highlights the importance of community involvement in maintaining public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing criminal activities. The police continue to emphasize the need for collective vigilance to prevent such incidents in the future.
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Dominica Met Services has best infrastructure in OECS, says blackmoore
Eight years after the catastrophic Hurricane Maria, Dominica has emerged as a regional leader in meteorological infrastructure within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Minister for National Security Rayburn Blackmoore highlighted this achievement during a walk-through ceremony at the Office of Disaster Management Building in Jimmit on Monday. The event was organized to showcase the significant progress made in meteorological forecasting and disaster management since the hurricane devastated the island in 2017. Blackmoore emphasized the importance of recognizing advancements, stating, ‘Let us not underestimate the progress we have made. Eight years after Hurricane Maria, we have the best Met Services infrastructure in the OECS.’ He noted that Dominica now boasts a standalone meteorological headquarters, a project initiated in 2019, which surpasses the facilities of neighboring countries that often operate from airports or smaller offices. Blackmoore stressed the critical role of well-equipped meteorological services in achieving Dominica’s goal of becoming the first climate-resilient nation. ‘We must have the prerequisite resources in personnel and equipment to better forecast and issue warnings,’ he said. The minister also highlighted the country’s investment in automatic water gauges and other advanced tools, which have reduced reliance on external entities for weather alerts. ‘No one would have thought that Dominica would be the first in the OECS to have a dedicated Met Services building,’ Blackmoore remarked, underscoring the island’s remarkable transformation since Hurricane Maria.