标签： Belize

As Oscar Requena prepares to transition from his role as Minister of Education to the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, and Local Government, he has responded to recent criticisms regarding his tenure. Requena firmly denied allegations of disrespecting teachers, emphasizing his deep respect for the profession. “I have always held our teachers in the highest regard, being a teacher myself. I fully understand the daily challenges they face,” he stated. He also defended his handling of teacher salary delays, asserting that the Ministry of Education acted in good faith and that information was not misrepresented. “There was no misconstrued information. I stand by my previous statements,” he said. Requena acknowledged the delays but attributed them to systemic issues beyond the ministry’s control. “These are recurring, perennial problems that teachers have faced for years,” he explained. He highlighted ongoing discussions with the Accountant General, the Treasury Department, and the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) to resolve the matter. Requena also criticized school managements for their role in the delays, stating, “Managements have failed to submit necessary information on time, which hinders the salary processing.” Earlier this month, BNTU President Nadia Caliz threatened industrial action over unpaid salaries, but Requena downplayed the possibility, stating, “Industrial action is not on the table as we have addressed the issue.” He noted that ministry representatives have held numerous meetings with BNTU leadership to advance discussions. Regarding his reassignment, Requena expressed his willingness to serve in any capacity directed by the Prime Minister. “We serve at the pleasure of the Prime Minister, and I am ready for my new role,” he concluded.

A brazen armed robbery unfolded at the Central Transit Garage on Lords Bank Road late Thursday evening, leaving authorities scrambling for leads. The incident, which occurred around 9:10 p.m. on November 13, involved two assailants who confronted watchman Ruben Yam at the facility’s entrance. One of the perpetrators brandished a firearm, while the other wielded a knife, forcing Yam to the rear of the garage where several employees were gathered. The duo made off with an undisclosed sum of cash and personal belongings, including a high-end Samsung Galaxy S21 smartphone valued at $1,200. Despite the swift response from law enforcement, no arrests have been made as of yet. The investigation remains ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has sparked concerns over safety in the area, prompting calls for heightened security measures.

On November 14, 2025, Belize’s Fifth Annual National Children’s Parliament convened in Belmopan, marking a significant step forward for youth advocacy in the country. The event, held at the National Assembly, brought together young parliamentarians, Members of Parliament, educators, parents, and other stakeholders to address critical issues affecting children and adolescents. The session coincided with Universal Children’s Month and the launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, emphasizing themes of protection, dignity, and empowerment. A key focus of the day was the introduction of the Adolescent Preventive Health Protection Bill, a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to empower adolescents by granting them independent access to preventive health services and information. The bill, which has already received cabinet approval, mandates health practitioners to adhere to Frazer guidelines when assessing competence, ensures confidentiality, and requires health facilities to adopt adolescent-friendly standards. The proposal sparked vigorous debate among attendees. Opposition Leader Gracelyn Gutierrez expressed theoretical support for the bill’s principle of improving youth access to health services but raised concerns about the potential erosion of family involvement, particularly regarding access to vaccinations, mental health screenings, counseling, and sexual health services for adolescents aged 14 and older without parental consent. Prime Minister Cameera Caliz countered these concerns, highlighting the challenges faced by working parents and the societal stigma surrounding mental and sexual health. She argued that the bill provides a necessary platform for adolescents to voice their concerns and access essential services. Senators also weighed in on the discussion. Business Senator Jamilah Usher emphasized the economic burden of preventable illnesses on Belizean families, warning that without the bill, medical costs would continue to rise, compromising children’s health. NGO Senator Darryl Canul echoed this sentiment, stressing that the bill aims to strengthen family support systems while ensuring the protection of vulnerable youth. The event was organized in collaboration with the National Commission for Families and Children, the Office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology, underscoring the collective effort to advance youth rights and well-being in Belize.

In a significant development, 29-year-old Mitzellie Sujellie Cruz has been arrested and charged with fourteen counts of theft following an investigation into the misappropriation of company funds at BIOMEDS Limited. The case came to light on July 10, 2025, when Vicki Andrea Quetzal, the company’s manager, reported financial irregularities discovered during an internal audit. Authorities revealed that Cruz allegedly embezzled $18,322.50 BZD (Belize Dollars) collected from various clients between May and June 2025. At the time of her arrest, Cruz was no longer employed by the company. BIOMEDS Limited, formerly known as Belize Chemicals, has been a prominent player in the industry for over a decade. The incident has raised concerns about internal financial controls and accountability within the organization. The case is currently under further investigation, and Cruz is expected to face legal proceedings in the coming weeks.

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has introduced new visa guidelines that could deny entry to the United States for individuals with chronic health conditions such as obesity, cancer, or diabetes. The directive, which instructs immigration officers to consider these conditions during the visa application process, aims to protect American taxpayers from potential financial burdens associated with healthcare costs for immigrants. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized the administration’s commitment to prioritizing American interests, stating, ‘This policy ensures our immigration system does not become a financial strain on taxpayers.’ However, the move has sparked criticism from immigration advocates. Sarah Krieger of the National Immigration Law Centre described the policy as ‘unusual and concerning,’ warning that it could disproportionately affect vulnerable applicants who might otherwise qualify for entry. The new guidelines align with a broader February order aimed at preventing taxpayer-funded benefits from going to ‘unqualified aliens.’ Critics argue that the policy could lead to confusion among immigration officers and unjustly block eligible individuals from entering the country.

Prime Minister John Briceño has extended heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Philip S. Wright on his historic election as Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. In an official statement, Briceño hailed this achievement as a significant milestone, describing it as “a moment of pride and distinction for the Anglican Community in Belize and the broader Caribbean region.”

Bishop Wright, who has served as the head of the Anglican Diocese of Belize for nearly two decades, now becomes the second Belizean to assume this prestigious role since 1934. Reflecting on his appointment, Wright expressed profound humility, calling it “overwhelming” and emphasizing his eagerness to continue his lifelong dedication to the church. “You never imagined a day like this would come. It gives me an opportunity to serve the church I love,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister’s statement further highlighted Wright’s influential role in fostering collaboration between the church and state on pivotal issues such as education, social development, and justice. Recognized for his spiritual depth and leadership, Wright’s elevation has been widely celebrated across the nation.

Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton also joined in congratulating Bishop Wright on Tuesday, praising his “extraordinary leadership, spiritual depth, and unwavering devotion to the service of God’s people.” This appointment marks a historic moment for Belize and the Anglican Church, underscoring Wright’s enduring commitment to his faith and community.