Monthly Archives: October, 2025
Government
Guatemala Responds to Prime Minister Briceño’s UN Speech
Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño addressed the 80th General Assembly of the United Nations (UN), raising issues from climate change to Guatemala’s aggression at the Sarstoon River. His remarks were widely praised in Belize but drew a response from Guatemalan authorities, who said his comments on the Sarstoon were unnecessary since the incident had been quickly addressed and the territorial, insular, and maritime claim had already been submitted to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Government
Belize launches Online Criminal Records Registry to streamline applications
The Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has launched an online system for applying for criminal records, officially called the Criminal Records Registry (CRR). The platform, accessible at crr.gov.bz, marks a significant shift in public service delivery, offering faster and easier access to this essential document.
Government
Compol Rosado Reinstated; Cabinet Recommends Independent Investigation
On September 30th, Dr. Richard Rosado, Commissioner of Police, returned to duty after being placed on a 45-day administrative leave to allow for investigations into the controversial abduction of Belizean Ryan Joseph Budna. The leave, which lasted only 23 days, was ended after the Cabinet determined that an inquiry found no evidence linking Rosado to the case. Cabinet directed that his leave of absence be terminated and that he resumes active duty immediately.
Conservation
Belize Forest Department Condemns Illegal Killing of Jaguar in Southern Belize
On September 29th, the Belize Forest Department confirmed the killing of an adult female jaguar in the Malacate area of Independence Village, Stann Creek District. The jaguar, weighing about 110 pounds, was found in an advanced state of decomposition with evidence indicating it had been shot. Inspectors also discovered that one of its canines had been removed, an act of tampering that is illegal. The carcass was subsequently buried. The Forest Department condemned the killing, reminding the public that jaguars are a protected species under Belizean law.
Sports
San Pedro Tiger Sharks Crowned Champions of BPBL Jaguar Cup
The island’s premier basketball team, the San Pedro Tiger Sharks, has claimed the championship title of the Belize Premier Basketball League (BPBL) Jaguar Cup after defeating the Cayo Western Ballaz 63-56 at the Belize Civic Center. With the victory, the Tiger Sharks cemented their reputation for discipline, professionalism, and dominance in one of Belize’s most popular sports.
Government
Belize Secures Historic Seat on ICAO Council for 2025–2028 Term
Belize was elected to Part III of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council for the first time during the 42nd Session of the ICAO Assembly, held on September 30, 2025, in Montreal, Canada. This historic victory grants Belize a seat on the 36-member council for the 2025–2028 term, giving the country a direct role in shaping international aviation policy. Kennedy Carrillo, former CEO of the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Civil Aviation, was appointed as Belize’s Permanent Representative to the ICAO Council and will represent the country on this global aviation body.
Business & Economy
New Fishing Seasons Begin for Queen Conch and Stone Crab, Mixed Opinions on Conch Stock
The Queen Conch (Strombus gigas) and Florida Stone Crab (Menippe mercenaria) seasons officially opened in Belize on Wednesday, October 1st. Both seasons run until June 30, 2026, unless production quotas are met earlier, in which case they will be closed. While Stone Crab fishing is not common in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, conch remains a popular choice. Some fishers reported a bountiful opening day, while others said stocks continue to decline each year.
Government
Belizeans Gain Full Access in Three CARICOM States
Effective Wednesday, October 1st, Belizeans can now live and work freely in Barbados, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. As part of an agreement among the countries, citizens will be allowed to stay indefinitely and work without a permit. They will also have access to basic healthcare and public education for children. The historic initiative was agreed to in July during the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting held in Jamaica.
