Sunday, October 26, 2025

Government

The Office of the Prime Minister Announces Cabinet Appointments

Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño will advise Her Excellency Governor-General Dame Froyla Tzalam to make the following appointments of Ministers of Government pursuant to section 40 of the Constitution, and the following Ministers of State pursuant to section 45 of the Constitution. The Prime Minister will also advise the Governor General to appoint the Attorney General pursuant to section 40(2) of the Constitution.

Belizeans to be trained in India on Disaster Risk Management

The Belizean government is set to enhance its disaster risk management capabilities through a specialized training program. The Government of India has invited 22 Belizean officials from various ministries and departments to participate in a training initiative focused on Comprehensive Disaster Risk Management. This program aims to equip participants with essential skills for effective disaster response. Announced on March 11, 2025, it highlights Belize's commitment to improving its preparedness for natural disasters and public health emergencies.

Employer Shall Provide Employees Time Off to Vote on General Election Day

The Labour Department reminds all employers of their legal obligation under Section 29 of the Representation of the People Act (Chapter 9) and to grant employees reasonable time off to vote on General Election Day, March 12, 2025. Employers must not deduct wages or impose any penalties on employees for taking time off to vote.

CARICOM Foreign Ministers discuss U.S. position on Cuban medical brigade

A meeting was held virtually on February 28th among the foreign ministers of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to discuss the United States' intentions to revoke visas for foreign government officials whose countries employ Cuban doctors and nurses. This decision stems from reports indicating that the U.S. views these medical brigades as forced labor programs.

Belize Completes Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development of Ambergris Caye with IDB Support

The Government of Belize, with the support of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), has finalized a Strategic Plan for the Sustainable Development of Ambergris Caye. Ambergris Caye, one of Belize’s premier tourism destinations, would benefit by achieving sustainable development goals during the next 20 years, including the adequate provision of urban services and strengthening critical infrastructure such as ports, airports, and roads. The island is also vulnerable to extreme weather events and the degradation of its natural assets.

Development Finance Corporation and Caribbean Development Bank Ninth Consolidated Line of Credit Project Launch

The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) recently held a Project Launch event to celebrate the official signing of its Ninth Consolidated Line of Credit with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). This agreement secures US $20 million in affordable financing aimed at bolstering key sectors in Belize, including Agriculture and Industrial Credit (AIC), Education, Mortgage Finance (Housing), and Energy Efficiency/Renewable Energy (EE/RE).

GOB forgives $54 million in patient debt at KHMH

On February 10th, the Government of Belize approved a $54 million debt write-off for the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) patients. This decision aims to alleviate Belizeans' financial burden.

Injunction to halt the March 12th General Election goes to the High Court

Claimant Jeremy Enriquez filed a legal injunction to halt the upcoming general election in Belize on Tuesday, February 11th, citing the absence of a constitutionally mandated redistricting exercise. On Wednesday, February 12th, he and his attorney, Trinidadian Anand Ramlogan, attempted to persuade the High Court to compel the Prime Minister to reverse his decision regarding the election date.