A devastating incident of domestic violence unfolded in San Felipe Village early this morning, resulting in the tragic deaths of a mother and her young son. The victims, 35-year-old Angelita Majana and her 6-year-old son, Tishan Godoy, were fatally burned while they slept in their home. Angelita’s daughter, Shadia Majana, and her common-law husband, Miguel Novelo, survived the attack but sustained severe burns and are currently hospitalized. According to police reports, Shadia informed investigators that her former stepfather, Francisco Godoy, entered the home during the night, poured gasoline on the family, and set them ablaze before escaping the scene. Godoy, who also suffered burn injuries, was later apprehended and is now under police guard at a hospital. Authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into this heinous crime, which has shocked the local community.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
-
Ceasefire in Peril? Israel Strikes Gaza, Halts Aid After Accusing Hamas of Truce Violations
The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Gaza is under threat following renewed hostilities, as Israel launched air strikes and suspended humanitarian aid, accusing Hamas of breaching the U.S.-mediated truce. The ceasefire, which had brought a temporary halt to over two years of conflict, now hangs in the balance. Israeli military officials reported that Hamas fighters in Rafah attacked Israeli forces with rocket-propelled grenades and sniper fire, prompting retaliatory strikes in southern Gaza. Additional violations, including fire directed at Israeli troops beyond the designated withdrawal boundary, were also cited. At least eight people were killed in the Israeli strikes across Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an immediate halt to aid deliveries, stating they would remain suspended until further notice. Hamas denied the accusations, with its military wing, the Al Qassam Brigades, claiming no knowledge of the attacks and reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire. Netanyahu convened high-level security consultations with Defense Minister Israel Katz and military chiefs, vowing to respond forcefully to Hamas. Katz warned that Hamas would face severe consequences for any truce violations. The escalation coincides with calls from far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition to resume full-scale war. Meanwhile, Hamas announced it had recovered the body of an Israeli hostage and would return it if conditions permit.
-
Moist and Unstable Conditions to Prevail Across Belize
The National Meteorological Service (NMS) of Belize has announced that the country is expected to experience moist and unstable weather conditions today, with scattered showers and thunderstorms likely in certain regions. While no weather advisories are currently in effect, meteorologists are closely monitoring tropical activity in the Atlantic and Caribbean regions. According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), a tropical wave near the Windward Islands is producing a broad area of showers and thunderstorms. This system is projected to move westward into the Caribbean Sea early next week, with potential gradual development over the coming days. Although the tropical wave poses no immediate threat to Belize, the NMS remains vigilant and will continue tracking its progress. The NHC has assigned the system a 10% chance of formation within 48 hours and a 30% chance over the next seven days. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official weather channels as the situation evolves.
-
CARICOM Reaffirms Caribbean as a “Zone of Peace” Amid Security Concerns
In a significant move to address escalating security concerns, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a ‘Zone of Peace.’ This declaration came during a recent meeting of the Heads of Government, where leaders expressed growing unease over increased military and security activities in the region. While Trinidad and Tobago reserved its position, the majority of CARICOM members emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. The regional body also highlighted its ongoing efforts to combat narcotrafficking and the illegal trade of small arms, stressing the need for international cooperation and adherence to international law. CARICOM leaders reiterated their unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and safety of Caribbean nations and their people. Although the statement did not explicitly name any specific country or external actor, it comes amid heightened U.S.-led operations and renewed debates about foreign intervention and border disputes. This reaffirmation aligns with the principles of the 1979 Havana Declaration, which advocated for a Caribbean free from military confrontation and external interference.
-
Domestic Violence in Belize: Recognising the Red Flags Before It’s Too Late
Domestic violence remains a pressing issue in Belize, with alarming statistics revealing 1,453 reported cases as of August 2025. Among these, over 1,000 involved intimate partner violence, with 1,089 victims identified as women. Young adults aged 25 to 29 were the most affected, highlighting the vulnerability of this demographic to abusive relationships. Sheena Gentle, First Vice President of Haven House, a prominent organization dedicated to supporting survivors and advocating for systemic change, is urging individuals to recognize the early signs of abuse. Haven House has been actively working to improve the handling of domestic violence cases in courts, enhance survivor support, and ensure perpetrator accountability. Gentle outlined five critical red flags indicative of abusive relationships. The first is excessive control, where a partner monitors your movements and demands constant updates. The second is isolation, where a partner criticizes or severs your connections with family and friends. Jealousy and possessiveness, the third sign, involve frequent accusations and overreactions to harmless interactions. Emotional manipulation, including gaslighting, is the fourth red flag, where a partner undermines your confidence by distorting your thoughts and feelings. The final sign is love bombing, where a partner overwhelms you with affection initially, only to later withdraw it and exert pressure. Gentle emphasized that these are just a few of the many warning signs in unhealthy relationships. She advised individuals to trust their instincts and seek support if something feels off. For those in need of assistance, resources are available through Haven House, the National Women’s Commission, and the Gender-Based Violence Unit.
-
Belize Takes Over Chairmanship of World Bank’s Small States Forum
Belize has been appointed as the Chair of the World Bank’s Small States Forum (SSF) for the term spanning January 2026 to December 2028. This significant development underscores Belize’s growing influence in addressing the unique challenges faced by small and vulnerable economies on the global stage. The announcement was made during the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, held in Washington, D.C., from October 13 to 17, 2025. Prime Minister John Briceño will spearhead the forum’s initiatives, focusing on crafting tailored solutions to economic and environmental issues that disproportionately affect small states. The Small States Forum, a platform uniting finance ministers and central bank governors from over 50 countries, plays a pivotal role in addressing vulnerabilities such as limited economic diversification, climate risks, and external shocks. Belize’s leadership comes at a crucial juncture as the World Bank finalizes its new Small States Strategy, aimed at providing more effective support to these nations. In a pre-recorded address, Prime Minister Briceño expressed his gratitude for the appointment and emphasized Belize’s dedication to securing “fit-for-purpose programmes and initiatives” for small economies. Belize succeeds the Republic of Cabo Verde in this role. The Belizean delegation, led by Financial Secretary Joseph Waight, included key figures such as Central Bank Governor Kareem Michael and Ambassador to the U.S. Nestor Mendez, who outlined Belize’s strategic priorities for the new framework.
-
Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez Named Belize’s Global Ambassador for Inclusion
In a significant development for Belize’s commitment to social inclusion, Minister Thea Garcia-Ramirez has been named the country’s Global Ambassador to the Global Coalition for Inclusion. The announcement was made by Marshall Nuñez, Vice Chair of Special Olympics Belize, during a formal courtesy visit to Minister Garcia-Ramirez on October 18, 2025. This prestigious nomination underscores her tireless efforts in championing inclusion, equality, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities throughout Belize. Minister Garcia-Ramirez has been instrumental in shaping national policies that safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups and promote social integration. Upon accepting the role, she expressed her gratitude to Special Olympics Belize and reiterated her ministry’s dedication to building a more inclusive and equitable society. The Global Coalition for Inclusion is a collaborative platform that unites global leaders and advocates to advance inclusive practices in education, health, and community development, particularly for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
-
Government Strikes $128M Deal for Fortis’ Hydro Assets and BEL Shares
In a landmark move, the Belizean government, led by Prime Minister John Briceño, has finalized a $128 million deal to acquire Fortis Belize’s hydro assets and a 33% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL). The agreement, announced in the House of Representatives, follows an independent valuation by Nera Consulting, which appraised the hydro assets at $122 million. Through strategic negotiations, the government secured a $12 million discount, reducing the cost to $110 million. Additionally, the BEL shares, initially valued at $62 million, were purchased for just $18 million, marking a significant reduction. Prime Minister Briceño emphasized that the final prices were based on historical data, global projections, and future profitability, ensuring a fair deal for taxpayers. However, the acquisition raises critical questions about its impact on consumers. Will electricity tariffs decrease, and if so, when? How will hydrological risks, such as droughts and low reservoir levels, affect hydroelectric power generation? Furthermore, how will Belize’s reliance on imported electricity from Mexico influence tariff stability post-acquisition? The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) may conduct a separate review to adjust rates based on revised generation costs, adding another layer of complexity to this transformative deal.
-
Hydro Deal Adds to Debt; Gov’t Bets on Recovery Plan
In a significant economic development, Belize’s government has announced a hydro deal that will temporarily increase the nation’s debt-to-GDP ratio by 4%. Prime Minister John Briceño addressed the public today, emphasizing that this move is part of a broader recovery plan aimed at stabilizing the economy. To finance the deal, the government will issue treasury notes, leveraging domestic resources rather than foreign borrowing. The Central Bank is tasked with securing $122 million in foreign exchange to facilitate the transaction. The Prime Minister assured citizens that the government plans to divest shares in hydro plants to offset costs, aiming to break even or even achieve a profit. This strategy involves selling shares to local institutional investors, including credit unions and insurance companies. While the immediate impact on public debt is marginal, the long-term success of this plan hinges on market conditions and investor confidence. The government remains optimistic, projecting that the sale of these shares will exceed their current purchase price of $1.50 per share. However, questions linger about potential risks, such as drought, tariff shocks, or shifts in investor appetite, and whether the government has contingency plans in place.
-
Panton Questions Economic Impact of Fortis Nationalization on Electricity Costs
In a heated session in the House of Representatives, opposition leader Tracy Panton strongly criticized the Belizean government’s decision to nationalize Fortis, raising concerns about the potential impact on electricity costs for citizens. Panton argued that the nationalization of Fortis would not automatically lead to cheaper electricity for Belizeans. She referenced recent statements by Prime Minister John Briceño, suggesting that if the government had focused as much on reducing electricity costs as it did on negotiating the Fortis deal, Belizeans might have seen tangible financial relief. Panton emphasized the importance of transparency, urging the government to clearly explain the benefits of the $260 million loan arrangement to the public. She highlighted the significant role energy costs play for residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, including tourism, and called for meaningful efforts to address the high cost of energy in the country. The debate underscores growing concerns about the economic implications of the Fortis nationalization and its potential burden on Belizean households and businesses.