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Prime Minister John Briceno
Police News
Proposed Thirteenth Amendment Withdrawn
The nationwide campaign to promote the proposed Thirteenth Amendment failed to gain public support and was subsequently withdrawn. Government officials have indicated, however, that...
Community and Society
George Price Day Observed Nationwide in Honour of Belize’s Founding Leader
On January 15, Belizeans remembered and honoured the late Right Honourable George Cadle Price, the “Father of the Nation.” The national holiday recognizes Price’s pivotal role in leading Belize to independence from British rule in 1981, fostering national unity, and paving the way for social justice and public service. His political movement also inspired Belizeans to follow his legacy by contributing to the nation’s development.
Business & Economy
GST-Free Weekends Return for 2025 Christmas Shopping
Belizeans are set to benefit from two GST-free weekends this Christmas season, announced by the Belize Tax Service. The tax relief will take place on December 6–7 and December 20–21, allowing shoppers nationwide to purchase standard-rated goods without paying the usual 12.5% General Sales Tax (GST).
Government
Prime Minister Briceño announces major Cabinet reshuffle
In a decisive move marking his administration’s five-year milestone, Prime Minister John Briceño announced a major Cabinet reshuffle on November 11, 2025, in Belmopan. The changes, which take effect on November 17th, reflect a strategic realignment of key government portfolios and involve several senior ministers. According to Prime Minister Briceño, the reshuffle aims to strengthen governance and policy delivery amid evolving national challenges.
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.
Business & Economy
Belize Records Moderate 3.5% GDP Growth for 2024
On Wednesday, September 24th, the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) presented its review of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for 2024, reporting a modest growth of 3.5%. The end-of-year data highlighted strong performance in the agricultural sector. SIB’s Manager for the Economic Statistics Department, Jacqueline Sabal, noted that the primary sector grew by 2.8%.
Crime & Violence
Commissioner Rosado Placed on Leave Pending Full Budna Investigation
On Monday, September 8, 2025, Belize’s Commissioner of Police, Dr. Richard Rosado, was placed on a 45-day leave amid the controversy surrounding the Joseph Budna kidnapping case. The move, unprecedented in Belize’s history, followed Prime Minister John Briceño’s review of an initial investigative report that he deemed “incomplete and unsatisfactory.” The decision has sparked a strong national reaction.
Government
Prime Minister Takes Decisions in the Budna Matter
Prime Minister John Briceño confirms that he received the Police Department’s Investigative Report, with regard to the Budna matter, from Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Kareem Musa, last Friday, September 5, 2025. The Prime Minister found the Report to be incomplete and, therefore, unsatisfactory. In the circumstances, the Prime Minister has directed that Dr. Richard Rosado, Commissioner of Police, proceed on a leave of absence for forty-five (45) days, in the first instance. This leave is to commence with immediate effect.