Tag:
Chester Williams
Government
Ministry of Transport Visits the Cayes to Discuss Traffic
During private meetings held in Caye Caulker and San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Dr. Louis Zabaneh, and his Chief Executive Officer, Chester Williams, engaged with local traffic control committees to better understand their challenges and explore potential solutions to traffic issues in the area. Members of the traffic control committees from Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye expressed their concerns and informed the Minister about various transportation problems affecting both island communities.
Government
San Pedro’s Drivers Licenses Uninterrupted Amid National System Failure
A major disruption has affected Belize’s national Motor Vehicle Registration and License System, leaving many motorists unable to obtain or renew their driver’s licenses. The system, developed with support from the Taiwanese Embassy, has been down for an extended period, impacting services at most Transport Department offices across the country, except in San Pedro Town, which operates a separate, locally managed system that continues to function normally.
Community and Society
Dr. Richard Rosado Ushers in Reform to the Belize Police Department
Belize’s law enforcement landscape is transforming with the appointment of Dr. Richard Rosado as the new Commissioner of Police. Taking office on April 30, 2025, Dr. Rosado’s promotion marks a personal milestone and a pivotal moment for the Belize Police Department (BPD), which is dealing with growing challenges in public safety, modernization, and community trust.
Community and Society
New security protocols at local municipal airstrips after airplane hijacking
In response to the alarming hijacking of a domestic flight that occurred on Thursday, April 17th, new security protocols have been implemented at all municipal airstrips. These measures ensure that every passenger is screened before boarding domestic flights. As part of the new regulations, at least one police officer will be stationed at each municipal airport.
Government
The Belize Police Department to Receive New Commissioner of Police
The Government of Belize (GOB) has appointed Dr. Anthony Richard Rosado as the new Commissioner of Police. This marks a leadership change following Chester Williams' anticipated transition to a new role as he is the country’s longest-serving commissioner. Rosado’s appointment emphasizes a commitment to both continuity and reform within the Belize Police Department (BPD), which has been facing ongoing challenges related to public safety and modernization.
Police News
BDF personnel destroy hand grenade found on Ambergris Caye
On Monday, March 31st, a bomb expert from the Belize Defense Force (BDF) traveled to San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye after reports of a hand grenade found on the island. The grenade, located in northern Ambergris Caye, was handled with great care and was safely disposed of (destroyed) around midday, according to police reports. The police are continuing to investigate the origin of this dangerous object and any individuals who may be connected to its discovery.
Government
UNDP and European Union Equip Police Prosecutors with Laptops and vLex Online Library to Enhance Case Efficiency
Under the PACE Justice Project, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Belize Country Office, nine laptops were procured for police prosecutors, providing them with the necessary digital tools to facilitate case management, research, and communication.
Business & Economy
Temporary increase in white sugar prices announced for the Belize market
On Tuesday, January 9th, the American Sugar Refinery (ASR)/Belize Sugar Industries (BSI) reported an increase in the price of domestic white sugar. As of Wednesday, January 10th, a 50-pound bag of white sugar will cost $59.26, around $1.18 per pound or $0.43 more than the controlled price of $0.75.
