Is BJM a Legitimate Third Party?

Rudy Wade is throwing his hat in the ring for the Cayo Central constituency. As a former law enforcement officer, he’s pinpointed several pressing social issues that need immediate attention, especially healthcare. Joining him in raising these concerns is Abner Bacab from San Pedro. Bacab, who was one of the three mayoral candidates in the March sixth municipal elections, is now running under the ‘melon banner’ this time around.

 

                              Rudy Wade

Rudy Wade, Belizeans Justice Movement

“ It’s just that it’s so sad that the media they only see the two-party system, so when it comes to a movement and a third party, per se, there’s not much visibility and highlights.  But we see the need and we see the direction that the country is going and it’s not good.  Starting from poverty, starting with the healthcare system, starting with unemployment, starting with our security forces, it’s not good.  And, a thing that hits me is that the healthcare system in this country is really, really bad and it needs fixing, and we have good plans.  We, the Belizeans Justice Movement, have good plans in carrying out that mission.  The Belizeans Justice Movement is comprised of regular people, my brother, no attorneys, no man carrying a briefcase, no doctors.  We are grassroots, farmers, retirees, retired teacher.”

 

                          Abner Bacab

Abner Bacab, Belizeans Justice Movement

“Belizeans Justice Movement is here to promote justice.  Justice comes in many ways: equality, improvement in healthcare, improvement in work, improvement in salaries, improving the lives of our Belizean people.  One of the many reasons I decided to join the movement was because I’m involved in healthcare service in San Pedro.  It’s privately owned, yes, but remember, San Pedro is the number one tourist destination in the whole country.  San Pedro gives back to the Government of Belize so much money and we don’t get it back.  We don’t even have a hospital.”

Another Fresh Face in Electoral Politics

Meet Leroy Lisbey, another fresh face in politics hailing from the Cayo District. This former public officer is passionate about fair land distribution and boosting the agriculture sector. Here’s what he had to say.

 

Leroy Lisbey, Belizeans Justice Movement

“I decided to enter politics because I have seen a lot of the injustices happening in the country of Belize.  For instance, in the unequal distribution of land that affects most of our citizens.  We need to make sure that the land be distributed to the people that are in need, make land available for the landless.  The market roads are in deplorable conditions and we need to upgrade these so that the farmers have access to reach their farms and bring out their produce so that the prices of the vegetables or whatever it is their producing be reduced.  Another great issue that I see happening is that we need to revitalize the industry like banana, citrus, and the cane industry.  Those are the things that generate income to this country and they are just left aside.  How can we become productive in that way, in generating revenue, improving these sectors?  All of these are things that affect Belize as a nation.  Of course, I am a retired public servant, as I said earlier, and I have seen where they have put public servants below other people.”

 

Prime Minister Departs the Country

The Office of the Prime Minister informs that Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño departed the country today, Wednesday, 13th November 2024, en route to Mexico City, Mexico, to attend the “270th Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors of COCESNA.”

The Prime Minister returns to Belize on Saturday, 16th November 2024.

During the Prime Minister’s absence, Hon. Cordel Hyde, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources, Petroleum & Mining, will hold over as Prime Minister.

Press release

Cheers to 16 Years! 

Get ready to celebrate! Open Your Eyes is turning 16 on November 17, and we’ve got something extra special lined up for our incredible viewers. This Friday, November 15, we’re going all out with a morning show like never before—packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes moments, and some surprise appearances that are sure to bring a smile.

“It’s a milestone for us,” says producer Viannie Reyes. “Over the years, we’ve shared so many laughs, heartfelt moments, and meaningful conversations with our audience. And this anniversary show will be all about celebrating with those who’ve been with us every step of the way.”

The show will host a special anniversary episode filled with entertainment, a nostalgic look back at memorable moments, and insights from loyal viewers.

Reyes said, “It’s been a milestone, filled with laughter, tough moments, and serious discussions. On our anniversary day, we’re looking forward to a fun-filled morning featuring behind-the-scenes content, fan engagement, and some of our top supporters joining us in the studio.” She said that one of the most impactful segments over the years has been their mental health roundtable discussions, which resonated deeply with both the team and audience.

The celebration will bring laughter with appearances from well-known Belizean personalities, along with a performance by Bussa B band and singer Yannie, who recently returned to Belize and was thrilled to join the anniversary show. Reyes added, “This year, we made it a point to acknowledge our top fans, and we’re excited to have them as part of our 16th anniversary celebration.”

Reyes also reflected on the show’s progress, from developing creative educational segments to spotlighting small businesses and travelling across Belize to offer marketing opportunities. “It’s been a journey of growth and commitment to keeping our viewers informed and entertained,” she said. However, she acknowledged challenges along the way, including unexpected cancellations and the logistics of filming on location, yet praised the team’s resilience in making it all possible.

Looking ahead, Reyes hinted at exciting plans for the future, though keeping details under wraps. “We encourage everyone to tune in this year because next year’s show will be very different,” she teased. “Join us for laughter, fun, champagne popping, and cake cutting as we celebrate this special milestone.”

Update: “We Found Her”

A mother in Belmopan is breathing a sigh of relief after finding her seven year old daughter who was reported missing earlier today. 

7-year-old daughter, Jaenisis Botes, went missing after leaving St. Ann Anglican School. 

The child’s father, Amadeo Botes, and mother, Florita Botes, searched for Jaenisis. According to Florita, she spoke to a teacher at the school who reported seeing Jaenisis. 

The mother told News 5. “We found her.”

 

7-Year-Old Goes Missing in Belmopan

7-Year-Old Goes Missing in Belmopan

A mother in Belmopan is asking for the public’s help after her 7-year-old daughter, Jaenisis Botes, went missing after leaving St. Ann Anglican School. 

The child’s father, Amadeo Botes, and mother, Florita Botes, are urgently searching for Jaenisis. According to Florita, she spoke to a teacher at the school who reported seeing Jaenisis outside with a classmate. The young girl was still in her school uniform, which is dark blue and light blue in colour. 

“I am in desperate need of anyone who can help. This picture you see is of my 7-year-old daughter. She attends St. Ann Anglican School by City Council. I don’t know what made her leave school before my husband could pick her up. We are all around Belmopan looking for her and can’t find her. Please share and call me if you see her. 6137677,” Florita wrote in a Facebook post.

The family is asking for anyone who sees Jaenisis to call the provided number. 

This is a developing story.

Charged With Murder 

Twenty-one-year-old Armando Tyler Coc has been charged with the murder of 29-year-old Wilmer Alexander Che.

Che was found shirtless with multiple cut wounds in what police suspect to be a murder in late October.Irma Che, Wilmer’s sister, told News 5 that she received a call from police who confirmed her worst fears—that her brother had been killed. For the past five years, Wilmer had battled a mental disability, which had grown more severe, leading him to live in isolation and seek refuge outdoors. Despite the hardships, his family cared for him tirelessly, feeding and clothing him.

Irma recalls her brother as a kind and respectful person who loved to fish and had once dreamed of having a family. Reflecting on the vulnerability of people with mental disabilities, Irma shared the challenges Wilmer faced and the small acts of kindness he received from strangers.

Family Still Reeling from Death of Mentally Disabled Loved One  

Tropical Storm Sara Poses Major Flood Threat to Central America

The Atlantic hurricane season’s 18th named storm, Tropical Storm Sara, is projected to form in the western Caribbean and potentially move towards the Gulf of Mexico by next week. However, the storm’s exact path remains uncertain. A low-pressure system, located in the Caribbean between Jamaica, Honduras, and Nicaragua, is expected to develop into Sara. Designated as Potential Tropical Cyclone Nineteen, this classification allows the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to issue alerts in advance.

The NHC has scheduled a Hurricane Hunter flight to investigate the storm. Tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings are in place for parts of Central America, indicating possible severe weather within 36-48 hours.

Sara could intensify over warm Caribbean waters and low wind shear. If it stays over open water, it may reach hurricane status; however, it could also move closer to land, affecting areas like Honduras, Belize, or Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Sara’s slow movement could bring heavy rainfall, risking catastrophic flooding and mudslides in Central America.

Models suggest Sara could head north towards the Gulf by Tuesday, potentially reaching Florida or western Cuba by Wednesday as it meets a cold front. Forecasts vary, and Sara could range from a weaker storm to a powerful tropical system.

.

Miss Earth Belize 2024 Returns from Philippines

After a month of fierce competition in the Philippines, Miss Earth Belize Morgan Miles is back home. While Morgan did not place, she told News 5 that she is proud to have represented her country at the Miss Earth 2024 pageant. 

Jessica Lane from Australia was crowned Miss Earth 2024 on Saturday at Cove Manila, Okada Hotel, succeeding Drita Ziri of Albania.

Miles focused on environmental advocacy and used her platform to promote sustainability and conservation. She also shared her passion for protecting the planet with a global audience.

“I think one of the things that I definitely took over there was my heritage and my pride that I have for Belize. Belize is so culturally diverse, and there is just so much hidden jewels and hidden adventures, and things that Belize has to offer. And so I took especially my advocacy for conservation and sustainability over there, and I got to share that with everyone over there on the international stage, and that was just mind-blowing,” Miles said.

Mia-Paige Miles, Morgan’s sister and Director of the Miss Earth Belize Pageant, said watching Morgan advocate for Belize on the global stage was a proud moment. 

“Seeing Belize on an international stage, our small country, Belize, represents itself very largely when we go abroad,” Mia-Paige shared.

Morgan’s journey doesn’t end here. She will continue her reign as Miss Earth Belize for the next year, hoping to inspire the next generation to get involved in conservation.

Exit mobile version