In a significant development within Belize’s Ministry of Finance, Christopher Coye, a key ally of Prime Minister John Briceño, has announced his resignation as Minister of State. Coye, who has been a pivotal figure in the government since November 2020, is set to return to private legal practice. This move has ignited widespread speculation about its implications for the Briceño administration, particularly as it comes early in their second term. Prime Minister Briceño addressed the situation, emphasizing that Coye’s departure is a personal decision driven by professional obligations. Briceño assured the public that Coye would continue to support the government in an advisory capacity, ensuring the Ministry of Finance remains on track. The Prime Minister also hinted at forming a small team to oversee financial matters, maintaining the administration’s successful track record over the past five years. Despite these reassurances, the timing of Coye’s exit has raised questions about potential challenges within the administration.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Low September Tourist Arrivals Signal Hard Times Ahead
Belize’s tourism industry, a cornerstone of its economy, is bracing for challenging times as recent data reveals a significant drop in overnight tourist arrivals. According to the Belize Tourism Board, September 2025 saw an 8.6% decline in overnight visitors compared to the same period last year, with numbers falling from over 22,000 to just under 21,000. This downturn is particularly concerning given that overnight tourism is the primary revenue generator for the sector. The extended U.S. federal government shutdown, coupled with global geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, is exacerbating the situation, causing American and international travelers to reconsider their travel plans. Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler acknowledged the strong start to the year but highlighted the adverse effects of global instability, including trade wars and conflicts, on travel behavior. BTB Director Evan Tillett emphasized the critical role of overnight tourism, describing it as the ‘lifeblood’ of the industry. The recent decline starkly contrasts with 2024, a record-breaking year that saw over 562,000 overnight visitors, marking a 21% increase from 2023. As the industry prepares for a potential slowdown, stakeholders are hopeful for a recovery before the peak tourist season begins.
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Prime Minister Questions Ombudsman’s Authority on FOIA Request
In a recent development surrounding a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, Prime Minister John Briceño has cast doubt on the authority of the Office of the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman had previously directed the Attorney General to release information sought by social activist Jeremy Enriquez. However, during a press interaction on Monday, the Prime Minister refrained from confirming whether the Ombudsman possesses the legal mandate to issue such directives.
When questioned about the matter, Briceño stated, ‘I think that’s a question to ask the Attorney General, because I don’t know. I’m not a lawyer. I don’t know if the Ombudsman even has that authority, but that’s a matter for I don’t know, so I don’t want to, so don’t twist anything that I am saying.’
The Prime Minister’s comments have sparked debate over the extent of the Ombudsman’s powers and the broader implications for government transparency. While Briceño affirmed his general support for transparency, he emphasized that the responsibility for public accountability extends beyond his office. ‘As much as you do,’ he remarked to a reporter, adding, ‘But you do give a public good. So, you also have a responsibility.’
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between government institutions and the public’s right to access information, raising questions about the mechanisms in place to ensure accountability and openness in governance.
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Belize Urges Calm Amid U.S.-Venezuela Tensions
In the wake of escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, Belize has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) as a zone of peace. The situation intensified after the U.S. military destroyed four vessels suspected of drug trafficking, resulting in over a dozen casualties. Trinidad and Tobago, caught in the crossfire, has expressed support for the U.S. military presence in the region. Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño has called for calm, urging all parties to de-escalate the situation. He emphasized the importance of preserving the Caribbean as a peaceful region and highlighted Venezuela’s role as a partner within CARICOM. Briceño also condemned the recent violent actions, stressing the need to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and discussions of military intervention in Venezuela. While pressed to condemn the U.S. for its actions, Briceño maintained a balanced stance, focusing on dialogue and conflict resolution rather than assigning blame.
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Jerome Palma is New SSB CEO
The Social Security Board (SSB) has officially named Jerome Palma as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Palma, who has been serving as Acting CEO since February 2025 and Deputy CEO since October 2024, brings a wealth of expertise in executive leadership, risk management, organizational governance, and investment strategies to the role.
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When “Zero Tolerance” Meets Silence in Belize’s Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Belize is under intense scrutiny following two tragic deaths that have exposed systemic failures in medical care. The first incident involved two-year-old Kaleel Nah, who died while his parents attempted to transport him from Ambergris Caye to Belize City for treatment unavailable on the island. This heartbreaking event highlighted the severe shortages of trained staff, medications, and emergency equipment in rural and island communities. Over a month later, on October 25, 92-year-old Eusebio Espinosa Sr. passed away while waiting for medical attention in the triage area of the Northern Regional Hospital. His son, Eusebio Espinosa Jr., recounted how he pleaded with nurses to attend to his father, only to be told they were ‘too busy.’ By the time help arrived, it was too late. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has promised thorough investigations into both cases, but updates have been scarce. Dr. Jorge Polanco, Director of Hospital Services and Allied Health, stated on September 12 that the ministry is examining potential flaws in the system. However, no further details have been disclosed. On October 26, Minister Kevin Bernard emphasized a ‘zero tolerance’ policy for staff failing to provide timely and dignified care. Despite these assurances, the lack of transparency and accountability has left many questioning the effectiveness of Belize’s healthcare system.
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China Now Requires Influencers to Have Degrees
In a significant move to combat online misinformation, China has enacted a new regulation mandating that social media influencers possess verified professional qualifications to discuss specialized topics such as medicine, law, education, and finance. The law, enforced by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), took effect on October 28, 2025, and has reportedly rendered up to 90% of influencers ineligible to continue their work. Influencers are now required to demonstrate expertise through recognized degrees, certifications, or licenses, while major platforms like Douyin, Bilibili, and Weibo are responsible for verifying these credentials. Additionally, content must include clear citations, disclaimers, and transparency about sources. While the CAC asserts that the regulation aims to enhance the accuracy and reliability of online information, critics argue that it may suppress free speech and restrict the diversity of voices sharing knowledge. Influencers, often valued for their relatability rather than formal qualifications, have become trusted sources on topics ranging from finance to mental health. The new law has sparked debate over the balance between curbing misinformation and preserving open discourse in the digital age.
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PM: “We Are In Trouble Right Now With Mexico”
Belize is grappling with escalating electricity prices and strained relations with Mexico, its primary energy supplier. Prime Minister John Briceño has openly acknowledged the challenges, stating, ‘We are in trouble right now with Mexico, as much as you might not want to accept it, we are in trouble.’ During peak demand periods, Mexico’s Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) has reportedly increased electricity prices to US$1 per kilowatt, exacerbating the financial burden on Belizeans. Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has expressed deep concern over these developments. To address this crisis, the Belizean government has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with U.S.-based Energy Transfer. The agreement proposes generating 50 megawatts of power locally, aiming to reduce reliance on imported electricity and enhance long-term energy security. Prime Minister Briceño emphasized that this initiative would not only improve domestic energy reliability but also position Belize as a potential energy exporter to neighboring Central American countries. This project is part of a broader strategy to diversify Belize’s energy portfolio, which includes the recent acquisition of Fortis hydroelectric dams, currently supplying approximately one-third of the nation’s power. While still in its early stages, the initiative reflects Belize’s commitment to achieving energy independence and mitigating the impact of external market fluctuations.
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Sister of Ryan Hyde Says: “We’re Still in the Dark”
The family of Ryan Hyde is grappling with grief and uncertainty following his untimely death. Hyde, a resident of Cotton Tree Village, Cayo, was shot in the head on Friday night and succumbed to his injuries at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City on Monday evening. His sister, Christie Cruz, expressed the family’s anguish and confusion, stating, ‘We’re still in the dark. We’re still trying to figure out the pieces.’ Cruz revealed that social media was the first source of information about the shooting, highlighting the disconnect between public knowledge and family awareness.
Hyde, originally from Roaring Creek, was not at home when the incident occurred. Cruz recounted the emotional rollercoaster of seeing him in the hospital, initially hopeful for his recovery, only to face the devastating news of his passing. ‘It’s really gut-wrenching,’ she said.
Addressing rumors surrounding the motive, Cruz believes her brother was unfairly targeted due to his last name. ‘With that last name, we’re just blatantly branded as bad… gun, drugs. We don’t have the ability to come from under that banner,’ she lamented. Despite public perception, Cruz described Hyde as a loving and kind individual, cherished by his family. He was in the process of opening a meat shop and was the father of two young boys.
The family is now awaiting the results of the police investigation and postmortem as they prepare to lay Hyde to rest.
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Ceasefire Fails: Israel Orders “Powerful” Strikes on Gaza
The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has shattered as Israel initiated a series of airstrikes on Gaza following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s directive for “immediate, powerful” military action. Both sides have accused each other of breaching the US-mediated truce, escalating tensions in the region. Netanyahu’s office asserted that Hamas had violated the ceasefire agreement by returning remains that did not belong to any of the 13 hostages held in Gaza. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed that Hamas would face a “heavy price” and emphasized that Israel would retaliate “with great force.” The sound of fighter jets over Jerusalem and renewed strikes near Gaza City have plunged residents into fear and uncertainty. Hamas-run civil defence officials reported at least two fatalities and four injuries in the latest attack. Hamas condemned Israel’s escalation, claiming it would obstruct ongoing efforts to retrieve bodies and postponed the handover of another deceased hostage. The conflict traces back to the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the abduction of 251 people and the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis. Since then, Israel’s military campaign has reportedly claimed over 68,500 Palestinian lives, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.