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标签： Belize

伯利兹

  • World AIDS Day Highlights Belize’s HIV Challenge

    World AIDS Day Highlights Belize’s HIV Challenge

    On World AIDS Day 2025, Belize faces a sobering assessment of its ongoing battle against HIV, with health authorities acknowledging significant challenges despite nearly four decades of global awareness and twenty-five years of national response efforts. The latest data reveals 244 new HIV cases recorded in 2024 alone, highlighting the persistent transmission rates that continue to trouble the Central American nation.

    Dolores Balderamos-Garcia, Chair of Belize’s National AIDS Commission, emphasized the critical need for transformative approaches during commemorative ceremonies. “Despite all our efforts, we still have a challenge in Belize,” stated Balderamos-Garcia, noting that the global epidemic now approaches its fourth decade with continued urgency.

    The commission has adopted the international theme “Overcoming disruption and transforming the AIDS response” to guide renewed efforts toward achieving the ambitious 95-95-95 targets by 2030. These targets aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of diagnosed individuals receive antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those treated achieve viral suppression—a crucial milestone that prevents further transmission.

    Balderamos-Garcia highlighted the scientific consensus that effective viral suppression virtually eliminates transmission risk, underscoring the importance of treatment adherence. She reflected on Belize’s three-decade-long response, noting that while knowledge and tools have advanced significantly, implementation gaps and persistent stigma continue to hinder progress toward epidemic control.

    The announcement comes as global health organizations and national governments reassess strategies to revitalize HIV prevention and treatment programs following pandemic-related disruptions that affected healthcare delivery worldwide.

  • San Pedro Family Wins Big in Mega Bingo Jackpot

    San Pedro Family Wins Big in Mega Bingo Jackpot

    A San Pedro family of four has experienced an extraordinary turn of fortune, securing approximately $104,000 from the latest Mega Bingo jackpot draw. The life-changing event unfolded earlier today as the fortunate recipients traveled to Belize City for the official cheque presentation ceremony at JD Financials.

    The timing of this windfall proves particularly fortuitous for the family, arriving during the holiday season when financial pressures often intensify. Rather than extravagant spending, the winners have demonstrated prudent financial planning by allocating their newfound wealth toward practical objectives. Primary among these plans is a measured home improvement project, with the remaining portion earmarked for secure savings.

    Interestingly, the jackpot was split between two winning parties, with the second recipient remaining unidentified at the time of the ceremony. Tournament organizers indicate this mysterious co-winner has yet to come forward to claim their share of the prize money.

    The atmosphere at JD Financials during the afternoon presentation was reportedly jubilant yet grounded, with family members expressing profound gratitude for their unexpected financial blessing. The event marks another notable success story for Belize’s gaming entertainment industry, demonstrating how chance occurrences can dramatically alter family circumstances.

  • Attorney Tiffany Cadle Challenges Customs Checkpoint After Highway Chase

    Attorney Tiffany Cadle Challenges Customs Checkpoint After Highway Chase

    Prominent attorney Tiffany Cadle has initiated a legal confrontation with Belizean authorities following a dramatic highway incident involving customs officers. The controversy erupted when Cadle refused to stop at a checkpoint in Sandhill Village, triggering a high-speed pursuit along the George Price Highway that culminated with armed police intervention in Belize City.

    Cadle captured the entire encounter in a viral Facebook Live broadcast, asserting that customs officials lacked ‘reasonable suspicion’ required by law to justify the vehicle search. The legal professional cited Section 91 of the Customs Regulations, which permits examinations only when officers have reasonable grounds to suspect smuggling activity.

    ‘There was no police presence identifiable by uniform,’ Cadle stated regarding the initial checkpoint. ‘I observed a Belize Defence Force vehicle and a customs officer on the phone. I proceeded through, and approximately five minutes later, I encountered flashing pursuit lights.’

    The situation escalated dramatically when police units intercepted Cadle’s SUV upon reaching Belize City, with officers deploying rifles during the confrontation. Despite the show of force, a subsequent search of the vehicle revealed only customary items—a black cake and bottles of rum popo, with no contraband discovered.

    The Customs and Excise Department issued an official statement defending the operation as part of a multi-agency task force collaboration involving police, military, coast guard, and immigration authorities. The department emphasized that their jurisdictional powers extend beyond traditional ports of entry and encouraged public cooperation with all checkpoints.

    Cadle maintains that the pursuit endangered both herself and her elderly mother, citing dangerous tactical maneuvers including sudden highway cut-offs and the aggressive use of high-beam lighting during the chase. The attorney has announced plans to pursue formal legal action seeking clarification on constitutional rights regarding freedom of movement and proper checkpoint procedures.

  • Family Beloved Vendor “Pie Bwai” Seeks Answers

    Family Beloved Vendor “Pie Bwai” Seeks Answers

    The Old Capital community is grappling with the mysterious death of Wayne Myles, a cherished 61-year-old street vendor affectionately known as “Pie Bwai,” who was found fatally shot in his apartment on Friday evening. The longstanding pastry seller, recognized throughout the city for his humble presence and nonviolent nature, was discovered lying face up with a gunshot wound to the upper left torso, leaving family members and residents alike searching for explanations.

    Floyd Myles, the victim’s 58-year-old brother, expressed profound bewilderment at the tragedy, emphasizing that his sibling had maintained an impeccable reputation throughout his decades of vending. “He never had any problems with anyone,” Floyd stated. “For over forty-seven years, he traveled these streets distributing his baked goods without incident. This violent outcome contradicts everything we knew about his peaceful existence.”

    The vendor’s enduring routine—a familiar sight since his early adulthood—represented more than mere commerce; it embodied a lifelong passion for connecting with community members through his culinary offerings. This abrupt termination of his daily rounds has generated both grief and unease among those who regularly interacted with the amicable salesman.

    Local authorities face mounting pressure from the bereaved family to accelerate their investigation and provide clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding this perplexing homicide. The Myles family has publicly appealed for expedited police action, noting their profound distress and the community’s need for resolution in the loss of such a widely respected figure.

  • Transport CEO, Chester Williams: “$300 is a Cap,” Not a Fixed Charge

    Transport CEO, Chester Williams: “$300 is a Cap,” Not a Fixed Charge

    In a decisive move to correct widespread misinformation, Transport CEO Chester Williams has clarified that the controversial $300 fee for new mandatory motorcycle training represents a maximum cap rather than a fixed charge. The clarification comes amid public concerns about the cost implications of the recently announced road safety initiative.

    Williams emphasized that approved trainers would be prohibited from charging exceeding $300, with actual costs potentially ranging from zero to the capped amount. The program’s primary objective centers on enhancing road safety by ensuring riders receive proper instruction in vehicle maneuvering and traffic regulations.

    The ministry has outlined an innovative approach to trainer certification, proposing to authorize experienced motorcyclists—including club members and riders with impeccable safety records—to conduct the training sessions. This strategy aims to leverage existing expertise within the riding community while expanding training capacity.

    Addressing corruption concerns, Williams issued a stern warning against potential misconduct, stating that trainers certifying untrained individuals would face immediate license revocation. The CEO also dismissed notions that the program would require extensive institutional courses, clarifying that trainees need only complete 30-35 hours of flexible instruction arranged directly with certified trainers.

    During recent consultations with motorcycle clubs, Williams encouraged members to pursue trainer certification, noting that approved clubs could establish their own training rates. Riders raised practical concerns regarding training motorcycle costs and business licensing requirements, which the ministry acknowledged as legitimate considerations.

    Williams framed the initiative within broader road safety context, comparing vehicle operation to handling loaded firearms and characterizing highway fatalities as a national crisis demanding immediate intervention. The training mandate represents one component of the ministry’s comprehensive strategy to address this pressing public safety issue.

  • UDP’s German Tillet: “We’re Not Worried About Jose Mai, the Horse, or PUP”

    UDP’s German Tillet: “We’re Not Worried About Jose Mai, the Horse, or PUP”

    In a striking display of political composure, United Democratic Party representative German Tillett has publicly dismissed concerns regarding his political rival’s controversial cabinet departure. The Orange Walk South constituency representative maintains unwavering focus on his parliamentary duties despite mounting speculation surrounding People’s United Party counterpart Jose Abelardo Mai’s November resignation from Cabinet.

    The political landscape shifted dramatically when Mai, who secured victory against Tillett in March’s general election, unexpectedly vacated his ministerial position. While Prime Minister John Briceño attributes the resignation to health complications stemming from equestrian injuries requiring surgical intervention, the departure coincides with serious allegations involving cartel connections and questionable procurement of bulletproof vests during Mai’s tenure at the Ministry of Agriculture.

    Tillett, participating in UDP’s National Convention, articulated his position with notable candor: “My commitment remains exclusively with serving UDP constituents. The electoral process demonstrated the people’s will, and I continue to earn their trust through tangible work. The internal decisions of PUP regarding Minister Mai represent their organizational matter alone.” The UDP representative extended professional courtesy by wishing Mai recovery while simultaneously emphasizing his detachment from the controversy.

    The political vacuum created by Mai’s absence raises significant questions about constituency leadership stability. Tillett’s calculated response suggests strategic positioning for potential future electoral opportunities, should the situation develop further. Notably, Mai has maintained silence regarding multiple requests for commentary, adding another layer of uncertainty to the developing political narrative.

  • Trump Had a Phone Call With Maduro, Told Him to Resign Immediately

    Trump Had a Phone Call With Maduro, Told Him to Resign Immediately

    In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the United States and Venezuela, President Donald Trump engaged in a direct telephone conversation with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro on November 21, delivering an uncompromising demand for his immediate resignation. According to sources familiar with the exchange, Trump offered safe passage for Maduro and his family in return for stepping down from power.

    The Venezuelan president reportedly rejected the ultimatum, countering with a request for comprehensive ‘global amnesty’ protections for himself and key political allies. The Miami Herald first broke details of the high-stakes diplomatic encounter, which Trump later confirmed to reporters while remaining characteristically ambiguous about the conversation’s outcome, stating merely that he ‘wouldn’t say it went well or badly.’

    This diplomatic confrontation occurs against a backdrop of intensifying bilateral friction. Since September, U.S. military forces have conducted lethal strikes against vessels suspected of narcotics trafficking in Venezuelan territorial waters. Additionally, Washington has formally designated Venezuela’s alleged ‘Cartel de los Soles’ as a foreign terrorist organization—a characterization Venezuelan authorities dismiss as politically motivated fabrication.

    The situation further deteriorated when Trump announced via Truth Social that Venezuelan airspace should be considered ‘closed in its entirety.’ Caracas responded with an official communiqué accusing the United States of violating national sovereignty and attempting to illegally control its aviation territory. The Venezuelan government characterized recent U.S. suspension of repatriation flights for Venezuelan migrants as an act of aggression, noting that 75 previous flights had successfully returned nearly 14,000 citizens. The statement concluded with a firm declaration that Venezuela ‘will not accept orders, threats, or interference from any foreign power.’

  • Series of Weekend RTA’s Leave One Dead

    Series of Weekend RTA’s Leave One Dead

    A devastating series of road traffic accidents across Belize’s highway network this weekend has culminated in a fatality and intensified national concerns regarding transportation safety protocols. The most severe incident occurred on Saturday along the Southern Highway near San Juan Village, where a van collided with a mobile house being towed by a truck. The van’s operator, identified as Pastor Julian Bol, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the location. Investigations reveal Pastor Bol was en route to gather laborers for his son’s upcoming nuptials. His daughter subsequently memorialized him through social media, expressing profound grief with the statement: “Will miss you forever dad, I love you.

    This tragedy highlights ongoing challenges with enforcement of recently established transport regulations. The Department of Transport (DoT) instituted revised protocols in August 2025 specifically governing the transportation of oversized structures, mandating that such movements “will only be permitted between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. daily.” The DoT’s policy explicitly warned that violations would trigger “immediate enforcement actions, including the impounding of vehicles, fines, and suspension of permits.”

    The weekend’s hazardous conditions continued with multiple additional collisions. A white GMC Terrain was involved in an accident near the Mullins River junction on Saturday, though no injuries were documented. Sunday brought further incidents as another rented GMC Terrain overturned on the Coastal Road after impacting a signage structure, landing adjacent to a drainage canal with no confirmed casualties. Another Sunday accident on the Hummingbird Highway prompted an official response from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, which emphasized that “the truth is no matter how many safety features we put on our road, the responsibility is on the driver.”

  • UDP Elects New Leadership Team

    UDP Elects New Leadership Team

    In a landmark political transition, Belize’s United Democratic Party has undergone a comprehensive leadership restructuring, culminating in the election of Tracy Panton as the party’s first female leader. This historic appointment not only shatters gender barriers within the UDP but establishes Panton as the inaugural woman to command a major political party in Belize’s history.

    The leadership convention, held on November 30, 2025, witnessed the consolidation of Panton’s position as Opposition Leader following her endorsement as party head. The newly formed executive team features Hugo Patt as First Deputy Party Leader and Miguel Guerra assuming the role of Second Deputy.

    Among the most closely contested positions was the Party Chairmanship, which saw a three-way competition between Roosevelt Blades, Sheena Pitts, and John Saldivar. After rounds of intense voting, Pitts emerged victorious, adding this responsibility to her existing role as one of UDP’s senators. The Vice Chairman position was secured by John Castillo following a direct contest with Ivan Williams.

    This leadership transition marks the conclusion of Moses “Shyne” Barrow’s tenure as party leader. In his farewell address, Barrow emphasized the peaceful transfer of power, stating: “As I engage in the peaceful, united transfer of leadership to my successor, the honourable Tracy Panton, I pray that the creator impart her with the wisdom and the knowledge, understanding, and political will to execute effective strategies in the rebuilding processes of our United Democratic Party.”

    Panton characterized the endorsement as the culmination of extensive groundwork, acknowledging: “It has been a long journey. My first task is uniting this party across the north, west, south, and central regions… The work is now only beginning.”

    The convention occurred against a backdrop of internal tensions that have persistently challenged party cohesion throughout the year. These divisions were further highlighted by a leaked WhatsApp exchange among delegates mere hours before the convention, raising concerns about the party’s ability to achieve unity despite repeated attempts.

    Panton now assumes command of a freshly constituted UDP executive, tasked with steering the party toward a renewed political direction and rebuilding its organizational strength.

  • UDP Chairmanship Race Heats Up

    UDP Chairmanship Race Heats Up

    The United Democratic Party’s national convention has evolved into a contentious battleground as three prominent figures vie for the influential position of party chairman. This high-stakes leadership contest has exposed significant internal divisions within the political organization, challenging its fundamental promise of unity.

    John Saldivar, making a political comeback following years of controversy, positions himself as the experienced candidate capable of revitalizing the party. “The organization requires my expertise, capabilities, and the strategic knowledge I possess regarding political organization and grassroots mobilization,” Saldivar asserted. He emphasized his comprehensive understanding of both electoral victories and defeats, presenting himself as the ideal candidate to restore the party’s street-level presence.

    Sheena Pitts enters the race with the endorsement of incoming leader Tracy Panton, countering narratives of internal discord. “I have not observed the turmoil being referenced,” Pitts stated to News 5 correspondents covering the event. She positioned herself as the unifying figure committed to reconciliation within party ranks.

    The political landscape intensified with Roosevelt Blades receiving public support from Mesopotamia representative and key party financier Lee Mark Chang. This endorsement triggered a series of contentious WhatsApp exchanges among delegates, revealing allegations of greed, betrayal, and political maneuvering centered around the chairmanship role.

    Blades dismissed the emerging controversy, stating, “I possess the winning strategy having managed numerous successful convention campaigns and elections within the UDP.” He emphasized the critical need to reengage youth voters and modernize party operations if elected.

    With Tracy Panton’s endorsement as party leader secured without opposition and other senior positions uncontested, the chairmanship vote has become the primary focus of political observers. The convention’s outcome will determine whether the party emerges strengthened or further divided by internal conflicts.