Amid swirling speculations about a potential merger in Belize’s telecommunications sector, Prime Minister John Briceño remained tight-lipped when questioned about the rumored acquisition of Speednet Communications by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). The rumors, which first surfaced in July 2025, have yet to be officially confirmed or denied. During a recent event hosted by BTL, reporters seized the opportunity to press the Prime Minister for clarity. However, Briceño deftly sidestepped the inquiries, redirecting journalists to his brother, Jaime Briceño, with a curt response: ‘Talk to Jaime. His number is 670-1234.’ When pressed further, the Prime Minister firmly declined to engage, stating, ‘I am not going to go into a banter with you.’ This evasive stance has left the public and industry stakeholders in suspense, fueling further speculation about the future of Belize’s telecom landscape. The potential merger, if realized, could significantly reshape the competitive dynamics of the sector, but for now, the government’s silence continues to cloud the situation.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Belizean Leaders Turn Cancer Battles into Stories of Strength
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when communities worldwide unite to raise funds, spread knowledge, and support those battling cancer. In Belize, this month serves as a poignant reminder of the daily struggles faced by hundreds of cancer patients, each with a unique story of courage and resilience. This week’s edition of Belize on Reel highlights the inspiring journeys of survivors who have turned their battles into powerful narratives of strength. Among them is Valerie Woods, the Speaker of the House, who revealed her breast cancer diagnosis last November. Nearly a year later, she has rung the bell signaling the end of her treatment, a symbolic gesture of hope and triumph. Another beacon of inspiration is Kim Simplis-Barrow, diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2011. Now in remission, she leads the Belize Cancer Society, using her experience to guide others through their own fights. Simplis-Barrow recalls the harshness of her treatment, emphasizing the importance of advancements in medication. Meanwhile, Dr. Cecilio Eck, a beloved pediatrician, shares his own life-altering diagnosis of stage four biliary tract cancer in July 2024. He describes how his life came to a halt upon hearing the news, yet he remains grateful for the overwhelming support from his community. The financial burden of cancer treatment is a significant challenge in Belize, with costs reaching $25,000 every three weeks for Dr. Eck. Simplis-Barrow, who has walked this path herself, emphasizes the importance of empathy and community support in alleviating these struggles. Despite the uncertainties of remission, these survivors continue to draw strength from their resilience and the unwavering support of those around them. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of hope and the enduring spirit of the human will.
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Tafaree Sanchez Faces Triple Attempted Murder Charges
In a dramatic turn of events, 25-year-old Tafaree Sanchez from Vernon Street, Belize City, has been formally charged with three counts of attempted murder following a violent highway shooting incident that occurred several weeks ago. According to law enforcement officials, Sanchez was not acting alone; he was allegedly accompanied by a 17-year-old minor during the pursuit of a light blue Chevy Equinox along the Phillip Goldson Highway near mile three. The situation escalated near Reimer’s Feed Mill, where the suspects reportedly exited their vehicle and opened fire on the SUV. The chase persisted, culminating in another round of gunfire in front of Maheia’s United. Two individuals, 36-year-old Glenford Reed and 28-year-old Joshua Augustine, sustained injuries during the attack. The primary target, Jahreem ‘32’ Staine, managed to escape unharmed. The minor was apprehended shortly after the incident, while Sanchez remained at large until his recent arrest, following the issuance of a wanted poster by the police.
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Faber Family Faces Funeral Delay After Double Tragedy
The Faber family of Belize is grappling with an unimaginable series of tragedies and bureaucratic hurdles as they attempt to lay two loved ones to rest. Just ten days after the brutal murder of Shaniele Faber, a mother of four whose dismembered body was discovered in a garbage drum, her 18-year-old son, Shamar Faber, succumbed to complications from a gunshot wound sustained in March. The family, already reeling from emotional devastation, now faces further distress due to delays in funeral arrangements. After receiving Shamar’s death certificate, they were abruptly instructed to return it for an autopsy, a decision that has postponed the funeral and added financial strain. Shamar’s aunt, Shawnette Tillett, expressed frustration over the hospital’s handling of the situation, citing a lack of communication and accountability. The family has already incurred significant funeral expenses and is urging the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital to expedite the process so they can proceed with the funerals. Hospital CEO Chandra Cansino has acknowledged the issue and promised to investigate further.
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Single Mom Demands Justice After Alleged Workplace Assault
A young single mother, Jessica Bencomo, has come forward with harrowing allegations of workplace sexual assault, demanding justice after her claims were reportedly dismissed by both her employer and local authorities. The 29-year-old pharmacy assistant detailed her traumatic experience on social media, recounting how her boss allegedly attempted to kiss her on October 7, 2025, despite her repeated protests. Jessica claims that when she reported the incident to her supervisor, her concerns were ignored, leaving her feeling unsupported and vulnerable. Compounding her distress, she alleges that the Belize Police Department downplayed the severity of her case, classifying it as “common assault” rather than sexual harassment. Now unemployed and struggling to provide for her children, Jessica is urging the Belize Police Department and the Pharmacy Association of Belize to intervene and ensure accountability. In an emotional interview, Jessica emphasized her determination to be heard, stating, “I need to report this because I’m really scared. I am emotionally distraught.” Her case has sparked outrage and calls for systemic change in addressing workplace harassment and assault.
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Tracy Taegar-Panton Denies Role in UDP Attack Ads
In a definitive statement issued on October 16, 2025, Tracy Taegar-Panton, the Opposition Leader and Albert Area Representative, categorically denied any involvement in the recent political advertisements targeting members of the United Democratic Party (UDP). Panton emphasized that she neither authorized, funded, nor endorsed these ads, asserting that they do not align with her personal views or leadership approach. Instead, she urged the UDP to prioritize unity and focus on the upcoming ‘big reset’ scheduled for November 30th. Panton advocated for respectful dialogue and constructive engagement as essential strategies for the party’s future success. Her remarks come amid growing tensions within the UDP, as members grapple with internal divisions ahead of critical political developments.
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AG Ministry Given 14 Days to Reveal Taxpayer Spending on Court Battles
In a significant development, social activist Jeremy Enriquez has successfully challenged the Attorney General’s (AG) Ministry over its refusal to disclose taxpayer spending on legal fees in recent constitutional cases. Enriquez had filed a Freedom of Information (FOIA) request seeking details on the expenditure and the attorneys involved. The AG’s Ministry initially denied the request, citing potential risks to the Government of Belize and concerns over compromising ongoing cases. Unwilling to accept this response, Enriquez escalated the matter to the Ombudsman, who ruled in his favor. The Ombudsman determined that the AG’s Ministry had violated the FOIA by withholding the information and mandated the release of the requested data within 14 days. Enriquez expressed optimism that the Ministry would comply but warned of potential legal action if the deadline is not met. This case underscores ongoing tensions between government transparency and public accountability in Belize.
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Panton on Anti-Shyne Ads: ‘It wasn’t me.’
Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton has publicly distanced herself from a series of political advertisements targeting UDP Leader Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow. In a formal statement released on October 16, 2025, Panton emphasized that she had no role in the creation, funding, or dissemination of these ads, which have been critical of Barrow’s leadership. She further clarified that she neither authorized nor endorsed any paid political content attacking fellow UDP members, stating that such actions do not align with her leadership style or values. Panton called for unity and constructive dialogue as the UDP prepares for its National Convention on November 30, where a new leadership team will be elected. The controversial ads have accused Barrow of fostering a ‘hostile, angry, accusatory, punitive, and isolated’ leadership environment. Earlier in September, Barrow hinted that his recent State of the Nation address might be his last as UDP leader, pledging to collaborate with his successor and the Belizean people to hold the government accountable and work toward a better future. The upcoming convention will determine key positions, including Party Leader and Deputy Leaders.
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Opposition Questions Government’s Transparency in BEL and Hydro Plant Deal
The Briceño Administration is facing intense scrutiny from the Opposition over its decision to acquire Fortis Inc.’s 33.3% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and its three hydropower plants on the Macal River. The deal, valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, includes the Mollejon, Chalillo, and Vaca hydropower facilities, which collectively supply over one-third of Belize’s electricity. Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton has criticized the government for rushing the transaction without adequate public disclosure, raising concerns about its financial implications for Belizeans. Panton questioned the absence of an independent valuation or regulatory review to justify the acquisition, emphasizing that the lack of transparency could lead to increased national debt and higher electricity costs. The Briceño Administration, however, maintains that the purchase aligns with sound economic policy and plans to introduce a Bill in the House of Representatives to authorize the transaction. Panton has called for the immediate release of all financial documents and asset valuations related to the deal, warning that the government’s plan for a “special budgetary appropriation” could result in more borrowing and a heavier burden on citizens.
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Dr. Eck Shares Update on Cancer Battle and Return to Paediatrics
Dr. Cecilio Eck, a cherished paediatrician, has provided an inspiring update on his ongoing battle with stage four cancer. Over a year into his diagnosis, Dr. Eck describes the journey as profoundly humbling, marked by both financial and emotional challenges. Despite the high costs of treatment—approximately $25,000 every three weeks—he remains deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from his community, friends, colleagues, and even his young patients.
Dr. Eck has undergone a rigorous treatment regimen, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, spending countless hours in hospitals. He shared touching anecdotes, such as a young patient who sold avocados to contribute to his treatment fund, highlighting the unexpected kindness he has encountered.
His faith and the unwavering support of his community have been pivotal in sustaining his strength. Dr. Eck emphasized the importance of living each day to the fullest, acknowledging the uncertainty of life. Recent scans have shown promising results, and he remains hopeful for remission.
While he still has another year of treatment ahead, Dr. Eck has returned to his practice, caring for his ‘little patients’ with the same dedication and compassion that has defined his career. His story continues to inspire and remind us of the resilience of the human spirit.