Former President Jimmy Carter remembered a great ally of Belize’s independence

James (Jimmy) Earl Carter Jr., the oldest living former United States President and a friend of Belize, passed away on Sunday, December 29th, at the age of 100. The 39th president, who served from 1977 to 1981, played a crucial role in Belize’s independence and was widely praised for his commitment to human rights and social justice after leaving office.
President Carter is fondly remembered in Belize as a friend who ensured the country’s independence. During his presidency, Belize was a British colony that faced continuous threats from Guatemala’s claims. Carter’s foreign policy, prioritizing human rights, led his administration to support the Belizean independence movement. Although Guatemala has historically been a strong ally of the US, the Carter administration could not ignore the human rights abuses occurring in Guatemala.
Ambassador and historian Assad Shoman said that Jimmy Carter’s administration’s 1980 vote in favor of Belize’s independence was crucial. “They finally voted yes to the United Nations resolution for our independence with territorial integrity, fulfilling our right to self-determination,” Showman said. Showman stated that without the support provided, it would have been challenging for Belize to obtain independence from the United Kingdom with security assurances. As a result, British troops remained stationed in Belize after its independence to guard against potential invasions from Guatemala and to prevent Cuba from sending troops to the country. Under Fidel Castro’s regime, Cuba was believed to have intentions to expand its communist campaign, which included an interest in Belize.
Jimmy Carter became good friends with the nation’s first Prime Minister, the late Right Honorable George Price, and visited Belize in 1996. During his visit, Carter flew on Tropic Air to San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, where he vacationed with his family. He met with former Prime Minister the Right Honorable Said Musa and George Price, whom he named in 1986 as Vice Chairman of the Council of the Heads of Government of the Americas. The council’s objective was to reinforce democracy in the Americas, promote multilateral efforts to resolve conflicts in the Western Hemisphere, and encourage regional economic cooperation.
Belize remembered Carter’s friendship and support for the Jewel when, on September 13, 2023, he was honored with the prestigious Order of Belize. His daughter, Amy Carter, accepted the award on his behalf. U.S. Ambassador Michelle Kwan hosted her. The U.S. Embassy stated that the award was well-deserved, recognizing Carter’s unwavering dedication to creating a better world.
Following the announcement of his passing, the Government of Belize expressed its condolences to his family and friends. The Opposition, represented by the United Democratic Party, also extended its sympathy. In a press release, they acknowledged his legacy as a champion of democracy, human dignity, and sustainable progress, inspiring current and future generations worldwide, including in Belize.
According to the Carter Center, he had been receiving hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia. He and his wife, Rosalynn (who passed away last year at the age of 96), spent most of their lives in that town. The center stated that Carter died peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Current US President Joe Biden has scheduled a state funeral for Carter in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025. This day has also been declared a National Day of Mourning across the United States. All US flags will fly at half-mast for 30 days starting Sunday, January 4th.