Tag:
united democratic party
Politics and Government
Mayor Núñez Seeks Third Term; Independent Challenger Tino Tzul Enters 2027 Race
San Pedro Town Council Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Núñez has confirmed that he will seek a third term in the municipal elections scheduled for 2027, a move publicly backed by Belize Rural South Area Representative André Pérez. The announcement sets the stage for a contested race on Ambergris Caye that already includes independent candidate Timothy “Tino” Tzul, a longtime resident who says he aims to bridge the island’s political divide.
Politics and Government
UDP Senator Zetina Raises Concerns at San Pedro Press Conference
Senator Gabriel Zetina of the United Democratic Party (UDP), along with members of the UDP Belize Rural South team, held a press conference in San Pedro Town on February 17, 2026. The event was held at Zetina’s office at Fido’s Courtyard, with speakers addressing pressing governance and environmental concerns. Key speakers included Zetina, Caye Caulker resident Samira Martinez, and former Area Representative Manuel Heredia.
Community and Society
PUP Northern Caucus Endorses BTL–SMART Deal Despite Public Opposition
The Northern Caucus of the People’s United Party (PUP) has unanimously endorsed the proposed acquisition of Speednet (SMART) by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). The endorsement followed a special meeting in Orange Walk Town on Saturday.
Business & Economy
BTL’s Proposed Acquisition Uncertain after Companies Withdraw
Following an announcement on January 9th that Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) was considering the acquisition of SMART, along with cable companies Centaur Communications and CTI/NEXGEN, the proposed consolidation is now uncertain. This follows the cable companies' withdrawal from negotiations amid increased public and media scrutiny. The proposed deal may now proceed with SMART included only.
Community and Society
Loan Motion for George Price Highway Rehabilitation Approved after Senate Debate
The Senate met on December 16th to debate a $69 million loan motion from the Caribbean Development Bank to rehabilitate the George Price Highway from Belize City to Hattieville. The debate prompted several senators to request additional information on the motion, with particular concern about the loan's total amount, which many described as significant. Despite a lengthy, at times heated, discussion that led to a brief suspension of the sitting, the loan motion was ultimately approved by the Senate.
Politics and Government
UDP outlines reform agenda at first press conference under new leader
On December 9th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held its first press conference in Belize City under the leadership of its newly elected and first female party leader, Honourable Tracy Taegar-Panton. Panton described the gathering as the start of a new chapter for the UDP, outlining a renewed direction and reaffirming the party’s commitment to unity and accountability as the country’s official Opposition. She emphasized that the party plans to take a more active role in scrutinizing the current administration led by the People’s United Party and addressing the urgent issues affecting Belizeans.
Politics and Government
Honorable Tracy Panton Becomes First Female Leader of the UDP
On November 30th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held its fifth national leadership convention since 2020, electing for the first time a female party leader, the Honorable Tracy Panton. The convention also marked another historic milestone with the election of the party’s first female chairperson, Senator Sheena Pitts. The Honorable Hugo Patt remained as First Deputy Party Leader, while Miguel Guerra of Benque Viejo del Carmen was elected Second Deputy Party Leader. Party members now hope the new leadership will guide a rebuilding process following the UDP’s continued struggles since losing the 2020 general election.
Politics and Government
Senator Gabriel Zetina Endorsed as UDP Caretaker for Belize Rural South
On Saturday, September 27th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) convened in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, to officially endorse Senator Honourable Gabriel Zetina as their new caretaker for the Belize Rural South (BRS) constituency. The constituency also includes the island community of Caye Caulker, and several supporters from La Isla Cariñosa traveled to San Pedro for the event held at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium at San Pedro High School.