The Government of Belize (GOB) is under fire from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) for its decision to take the Office of the Ombudsman to court. NTUCB President Ella Waight expressed deep concern and disappointment, labeling the move as a direct affront to the principles of good governance. Waight emphasized that the government’s action contradicts its commitments under the Plan Belize 2020, which pledged to uphold transparency and accountability. The NTUCB has publicly declared its solidarity with the Ombudsman, stressing the importance of this issue to public interest. Additionally, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority Workers Union has joined the call for full disclosure, arguing that public funds must always remain subject to public scrutiny. Both unions warn that a lack of transparency erodes democracy and undermines trust in public institutions. The legal costs associated with the case, drawn from consolidated funds, have further fueled criticism, prompting calls for the government to reconsider its course of action.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Chief Meteorologist Urges Vigilance Despite Calm Forecast
As November progresses, many Belizeans are questioning whether the threat of hurricanes has finally subsided. Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon, however, emphasizes that vigilance remains crucial. While the recent passage of the first cold front last week is a positive indicator, Gordon reminds the public that the official hurricane season extends until November 30th, with the potential for storms forming even beyond that date. Currently, the weather outlook is calm, but Gordon stresses the importance of staying prepared. Reflecting on the possibility of a catastrophic storm like Hurricane Melissa impacting Belize, Gordon acknowledges the country’s vulnerability. Historically, Belize has endured severe hurricanes, with major storms recurring every 20 to 30 years. The last significant event was Hurricane Dean in 2007, which, although not making direct landfall, still affected the northern regions. Gordon’s message is clear: while the immediate forecast is reassuring, complacency is not an option in a region prone to such natural disasters.
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Belize Will Likely End Hurricane Season Slightly Below Average
As the 2025 hurricane season nears its end, Belize is poised to finish slightly below the average in terms of storm activity. Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon has provided insights into the season’s performance and addressed ongoing discussions about potential upgrades to the storm classification system. According to Gordon, regional and international agencies, including the National Hurricane Center and the World Meteorological Organization, have unanimously decided against altering the current system. While future changes remain a possibility, the existing framework will stay intact for now. Gordon highlighted that Belize has experienced thirteen named storms this season, one fewer than the typical fourteen. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had projected a range of thirteen to nineteen storms, placing Belize at the lower end of this spectrum. Gordon emphasized that even a below-average season can be impactful, citing Hurricane Melissa’s significant effects on Jamaica as an example. He reiterated that the current category system, which caps Category 5 storms at winds exceeding 157 miles per hour, remains effective and avoids unnecessary complexity. The season’s final tally will depend on whether any additional storms develop in November.
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$60K Boost for Early Warning Systems After Hurricane Melissa’s Devastation
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on the Caribbean, Belize is taking significant steps to bolster its early warning systems. The National Meteorological Service of Belize has received a $60,000 donation of advanced equipment from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), aimed at enhancing the country’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader project that began in July 2024 and is set to continue through December 2026, with additional funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Food Program. The donated equipment includes computers and communication tools that will be used to generate graphics, produce short forecasts, and collect critical climate data. Ronald Gordon, Chief Met Officer, emphasized the dual focus of the project: improving early warning capabilities to provide actionable information on approaching hazards and collecting long-term climate data to inform future planning and development. Minister of Public Service, Henry Charles Usher, highlighted the importance of training and capacity building for the National Met Service staff and disaster risk management teams across the country. This donation is a key component of the United Nations’ ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative, which aims to protect everyone on Earth from hazardous weather, water, or climate events by the end of 2027.
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Education Minister Denies Claims of Unpaid Teachers
Belize’s Education Minister, Oscar Requena, has publicly addressed allegations that several teachers have not received their salaries for months. The issue gained traction last Friday when Nadia Caliz, President of the Belize National Teachers Union, raised concerns on social media, questioning why some educators had reportedly gone unpaid for four months and why unexplained deductions appeared in their paychecks. Minister Requena acknowledged the matter, stating that while the concerns are valid, there has been significant misinformation circulating online. He clarified that the issue stemmed from a delay in paying certain teacher allowances, such as hardship and responsibility allowances, as well as salary adjustments, which occurred in December of the previous year. To address this, the Ministry of Education decided to advance salaries to affected teachers, with the understanding that the amounts would later be deducted from their paychecks. Requena admitted that the primary issue was a lack of timely communication between the Ministry and the teachers regarding these deductions. He emphasized that the situation does not reflect a failure to pay salaries but rather a procedural delay and miscommunication.
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Education Leaders Map Out Next Five Years
Belize’s education system is poised for transformation as key stakeholders gather for a pivotal two-day meeting to chart the course for the next five years. Hosted by the Ministry of Education, the Education Sector Plan meeting focuses on evaluating the achievements and challenges of the Belize Education Sector Plan (BESPlan) 2021–2025 and laying the groundwork for the 2026–2030 strategy. Education Minister Oscar Requena emphasized the importance of this collaborative review, highlighting significant progress in areas such as student enrollment across all levels, from preprimary to tertiary education. The meeting aims to identify priorities, address systemic challenges, and craft a comprehensive plan to enhance Belize’s educational landscape. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and equitable access to education, setting the stage for long-term societal and economic benefits.
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Internal HRCU Report Leak Raises Compliance Concerns
Holy Redeemer Credit Union (HRCU) is grappling with a significant breach of confidentiality following the unauthorized disclosure of an internal audit report. The document, intended solely for senior management and the board, was leaked to Channel 7’s Jules Vasquez, who publicly discussed its contents during his broadcast. HRCU has condemned the leak, stating it violates both the Credit Union Act and the institution’s Code of Conduct. The credit union emphasized that the breach could jeopardize its agreements with regulators and external auditors. In response, HRCU assured its members that all issues highlighted in the audit have been resolved and that robust compliance measures remain in effect. The incident has sparked a broader debate about transparency and accountability within Belize’s financial sector. Questions have arisen regarding Section Thirty-two of the Credit Union Act, which HRCU cited in its statement. Does this section merely restrict HRCU officials from disclosing confidential information, or does it also prohibit media outlets from reporting on leaked documents? Additionally, HRCU has not ruled out legal action against the leaker or the broadcaster. The leak has drawn sharp criticism from Henry Charles Usher, who expressed concern over the potential exposure of personal financial information. Usher urged HRCU to clarify the matter publicly and ensure its response is widely disseminated.
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Belize Launches Million-dollar Jackpot, Questions Loom
The Belize Government Lotteries (BGLL) has announced an exciting opportunity for citizens to try their luck at winning a million-dollar jackpot. Tickets for this special lottery game are now available at BGLL agents across the nation, with online sales commencing on November 5 via the Fi We Boledo app. Priced at just $5 per ticket, participants can select a four-digit combination for a chance to win the grand prize, which will be drawn on December 20 in Belmopan. In the event of multiple winners, the prize will be divided equally. Winners can claim their rewards starting December 22, but must act quickly as tickets are only valid for 30 days post-draw. A notable aspect of this initiative is that all profits will be directed to charitable causes. However, questions have been raised regarding the transparency of the process. The BGLL has stated that profits will be donated to a charitable organization chosen by its Board, but specifics such as the selection criteria, beneficiary organizations, and the timeline for announcements remain unclear. Additionally, concerns have been voiced about whether BGLL will publish an independently audited report detailing ticket sales, administrative costs, prize payouts, and the exact amount donated. The 30-day validity period for tickets has also been questioned, especially for a one-time, high-stakes game. While the lottery offers a thrilling chance to win big, the lack of detailed information has left some Belizeans skeptical about the initiative’s transparency and accountability.
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Government Open to Dialogue Amid PSU Threats of Strike
The Government of Belize has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with the Public Service Union (PSU) and employees of the Belize Tax Service (BTS) following reports of potential strike action. The unrest stems from the department’s transition into the Statutory Authority for Revenue Administration (SARA), a new statutory body aimed at modernizing revenue management. Minister of Public Service, Henry Usher, emphasized that while no formal strike notice has been issued, the government is committed to addressing employee concerns. Usher highlighted that the transition to SARA is part of a long-term public sector reform initiative, not an abrupt change. He assured employees that those unwilling to join SARA would have opportunities to continue their roles in other public service sectors. The government remains open to dialogue with the PSU and public officers to resolve the issues amicably.
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Two Suspects Wanted for Robbing UNO Gas Station
Authorities in Belize City are on the hunt for two individuals implicated in a brazen armed robbery at the UNO gas station located at mile 1.5 on the Philip Goldson Highway. The incident occurred on Friday, November 3, 2025, leaving the community on edge. According to reports, the station manager, Eric Chi, was preparing to make a deposit when he was accosted by one of the suspects, who brandished a firearm and forced him to the ground. An accomplice on a motorcycle assisted in the theft of a substantial amount of cash before both fled the scene. While initial estimates suggest that up to $50,000 was stolen, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Hilberto Romero, Head of the National Crime Investigation Branch, has yet to confirm the exact figure. Romero revealed that the suspects were allegedly lying in wait at a nearby parking lot before targeting the manager. Police are currently examining surveillance footage to aid in the identification and apprehension of the suspects. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement seeks to bring the perpetrators to justice.