Community and Society
State Memorial held to celebrate the life of Rt. Hon. Sir Manuel Esquivel
On Tuesday, February 15th, a State Memorial celebrating the life of the late former Prime Minister Right Honourable Dr. Sir Manuel Esquivel KCMG, PC, was held in Belize City. This included transporting his ashes to the Government House from his residence and a visit of government officials and other dignitaries to pay their respects.
Business & Economy
No increase in electricity rates expected until June
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has decided to keep the current Mean Electricity Rate of $0.39.9 per kilowatt-hour instead of the proposed increase of $0.41.5 per kilowatt-hour. The current rate will remain until June 30, 2022.
Community and Society
Former Prime Minister Sir Manuel Esquivel passes away
On Thursday, February, 10th, Belize received the sad news of the passing of former Prime Minister Right Honourable Sir Manuel Esquivel KCMG PC. The 81-year-old former two-time head of government under the United Democratic Party (UDP), 1984-1989 and 1993-1998, reportedly died at a local health care centre in Belize City around 4:30PM, after being ill for some time. A memorial service in his honour will take place in the upcoming days.
Community and Society
SACNW and Saga Humane Society benefit from annual Kelly McGuire birthday bash
Every February, award-winning country singer/songwriter Kelly McGuire comes to San Pedro Town to celebrate his birthday with performances to raise funds for local non-profit organizations. The South Ambergris Caye Neighborhood Watch (SACNW) and the island’s Saga Humane Society are two recipients. The events are not just fun but worthy causes that generated much-needed funds for these two vital organizations on the island.
Community and Society
Government tables Domestic Violence motion in House of Representatives
In a rare occurrence, the Belizean Parliament joined forces on Friday, February 4th, during the Sitting of the House, and agreed on new legislation against gender-based domestic violence. The Bill sets out specific measures the government will take against this issue. The motion responded to the increasing reports of domestic abuse, including the recent allegation of abuse made against former UDP Leader of the Opposition Patrick Faber.
Community and Society
Queen Elizabeth II celebrates 70 years in the British monarchy and head of the Commonwealth
On Monday, February 7th, royal gun salutes echoed in London and Edinburgh in the United Kingdom, marking Queen Elizabeth II's 70th year on the throne. The celebration dubbed 'Platinum Jubilee' celebrates the 95-year-old British royal, who has become the world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch. As per the Royal Family's web portal, the historic Platinum Jubilee celebrations will span throughout the UK, the Commonwealth of which Belize is part of, and worldwide. The Queen is Belize's official Head of State, represented by Governor General Froyla Tzalam.
Community and Society
Curfew will continue
The curfew extension starts on Monday, February 7th remaining at 11PM from Sundays to Thursdays and 12-midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. This has been the government’s primary measure to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The new extension will expire on March 6, 2022.
Community and Society
Reopening of land borders postponed again
The full reopening of land and seaport borders with Mexico and Guatemala, set for Tuesday, February 1, has once again been postponed. The new reopening date is February 7th.