The High Court, under Justice Rajiv Goonetilleke, is currently reviewing the constitutionality of the Belizean government’s move to compulsorily acquire 23.4 acres of Stake Bank Island. This land, owned by developer Michael Feinstein, is intended for the development of a cruise port with berthing facilities. However, the land is slated to be transferred to OPSA, a Honduran company and former partner of Feinstein, raising legal challenges.
Godfrey Smith is representing Feinstein, Eamon Courtenay for OPSA, and Dean Barrow for the receiver.
The government’s defence team includes Magali Marin Young and two senior attorneys from Trinidad, whose fees are being covered by Belizean taxpayers.
Feinstein’s legal team argues that the acquisition lacks a legitimate public purpose, alleging it serves to resolve a private title dispute in favour of OPSA. The government and OPSA maintain that the acquisition is constitutional and serves the public interest by facilitating the cruise port development.
The court has temporarily paused the acquisition process pending the outcome of the constitutional challenge. Justice Goonetilleke is expected to deliver a decision by January 2025. In the interim, the project remains on hold. Additionally, a separate claim by Atlantic Bank and OPSA against Feinstein, alleging fraudulent acquisition of the land, is scheduled for mid-January.
What authorities believe is a suspected drug plane was found earlier today in the Dolores Village area of the Toledo District. It is believed that the plane landed this morning.
Law enforcement officials responded to the scene in the wee hours of this morning. They discovered the aircraft set ablaze. It is believed that the cargo was removed and transported out of the country. The plane landed on a makeshift airstrip.
Dr. Erja Askola, the newly appointed Ambassador of the European Union to Belize, hails from Finland in northern Europe. She currently serves as the EU Ambassador to Jamaica, Belize, and The Bahamas, and she expressed her delight at being in this vibrant region, describing Belize as a unique bridge between the Caribbean and Central America.
Dr. Askola brings a wealth of experience to her role, having worked as an international business lawyer, competition and antitrust lawyer, and in the fields of international relations, development cooperation, and trade negotiations. Her previous posting in Fiji involved engagement with 13 Pacific Island countries, making her new role a seamless continuation of her work with small island states and ACP (African, Caribbean, and Pacific) nations.
She is particularly excited about contributing to meaningful and impactful initiatives.
Dr. Askola aims to deepen political collaboration, advance shared priorities in global issues, development cooperation, trade, and investments, and enhance ties with the government and other key stakeholders.
One of her priorities is fostering closer people-to-people connections. She highlighted initiatives such as student exchanges through Erasmus and EU visitors programs, underscoring her belief that partnerships are fundamentally about people. Reflecting on the strong bond between Belize and the EU, she noted, “It is the EU and you.”
As we wrap up 2024, News 5 is excited to bring you our digital Year in Review! This year, we're diving into the highlights and challenges of the past twelve months, all organized by themes. Join us as we look back at the stories that shaped our year…
It’s been a year defined by bold infrastructure projects, legislative reforms, leadership transitions, and challenges like the ongoing brain drain. From controversial decisions on land acquisitions to the development of new hospitals and life-saving technological advancements, Belize’s healthcare system underwent significant shifts that will have long-term implications for its citizens.
The Belmopan Tertiary Hospital Debate
One of the most hotly debated issues of 2024 was the government’s decision to purchase 15 acres of private land in Belmopan for BZD $6.9 million to build a tertiary hospital. This decision sparked protests led by grassroots activist Nigel Petillo, supported by the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU), the Public Service Union (PSU), and other civil society groups. The core grievance was that the University of Belize (UB) had offered land for free, yet the government opted to purchase private land adjacent to a sewer pond, raising public health and environmental concerns.
The Government of Belize defended its position, stating that a technical study concluded that the UB land was too remote and had insufficient infrastructure. Director of Hospital Services Dr. Jorge Polanco explained that access to the UB site was difficult, requiring the development of roads and utilities at a significant cost. On the other hand, the opposition, led by Moses “Shyne” Barrow, viewed the land purchase as a case of “glaring corruption” and threatened legal action.
In December, the government signed a BZ$3.2 million consultancy contract with Dar Al Omran International Engineering Consulting Company (DAO) for the design and supervision of a 150-bed Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Belmopan. Spanning 55 months, the consultancy covers design, construction supervision, and quality assurance for the hospital, a project funded by the Saudi Fund for Development and government contributions.
New Hospital for Belize City
Another significant announcement was the approval of a new tertiary-level hospital for Belize City, which will replace the ageing Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH). Funded by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), the facility aims to improve healthcare access for residents in the Belize District and northern regions. The government’s decision to construct a new hospital instead of renovating the existing KHMH was based on studies indicating that renovation costs would exceed the cost of new construction. The government is yet to finalise the location, but options include the site of the old nursing school or land near the Eleanor Hall building.
San Pedro and Caye Caulker General Hospital
Ground was officially broken for the construction of the long-awaited San Pedro and Caye Caulker General Hospital. This $33 million BZD project, funded by the Government of Taiwan, will address the chronic issue of residents having to be airlifted to the mainland for emergency care. The project, which is expected to be completed within 36 months, is seen as a significant step toward improving healthcare equity in Belize’s island communities. Area Representative Andre Perez noted that the hospital’s establishment fulfils a long-standing promise to island residents who have faced health emergencies without timely access to care.
Technological Advancements and Equipment Upgrades
One of the most eagerly awaited advancements was the arrival of a new CT scanner. Delays in delivery had raised public concern, but by March 2024, the new equipment was installed and operational. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard stressed the importance of the scanners, noting that they offer faster and more accurate diagnoses. The machine was installed at the K.H.M.H. It broke down after 8 months. The KHMHA later announced that the repair and full restoration of its CT scan machine, which had been out of service due to a hardware issue caused by condensation, was complete. During the downtime, arrangements were made with nearby facilities to ensure patient access to CT scans.
Through a collaboration between Edward and Patricia Lord of the Belizean diaspora and the Build Belize Initiative, the Ministry of Health received medical equipment valued at $1.8 million USD. The donation included birthing beds, defibrillators, patient monitors, and ICU beds. Health Minister Bernard emphasised that the equipment would be distributed to health facilities nationwide, enhancing emergency care and improving patient outcomes. Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations Anthony Mahler hailed the initiative as a testament to the power of diaspora contributions.
Legislative and Policy Reforms
Significant legislative reform came in the form of amendments to the Food and Drug Act. The overhaul introduced stricter regulations to prevent the entry of substandard pharmaceutical products. Chief Drug Inspector resignations raised concerns about the impact of these reforms, but Health Minister Bernard assured the public that oversight mechanisms were in place. The Ministry’s drug inspection unit stepped up enforcement, seizing contraband medications and ensuring quality control. The reform aligns with World Health Organisation (WHO) standards and strengthens consumer protection.
Another contentious reform was the proposed amendment to the KHMH Act, which would see the replacement of the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Workers’ Union (KHMHWU) representative on the hospital’s board with a member from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). After intense pushback from the KHMHWU, the government allowed the union to nominate two candidates for the board. Minister Bernard justified the move as a way to broaden representation and avoid conflicts of interest.
The Fight Against Brain Drain
A chronic issue in 2024 was Belize’s healthcare worker shortage. The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital reported a loss of 50 nurses and doctors due to better-paying opportunities abroad. Nurses Association President Renita Pop revealed that over 100 nurses had left the country since 2021. The government’s strategy to address the crisis included offering scholarships for specialities like midwifery and public health nursing. Despite these efforts, the shortage persisted, resulting in increased workloads for remaining staff.
Personal Tragedies and Losses
Belize’s healthcare community was shaken by the untimely passing of Dr. Fernando Cuellar, a prominent figure in the medical field. Diagnosed with blood cancer, Dr. Cuellar’s battle was tragically brief, leaving a void in public healthcare advocacy. His legacy of compassionate care and fearless truth-telling lives on in the hearts of colleagues and patients alike.
The nation’s collective heart also went out to paediatrician Dr. Cecilio Eck, who revealed he had been diagnosed with stage-four cancer. Belizeans rallied to support him, raising funds for his treatment in the United States. Dr. Eck’s journey underscored the broader need for access to advanced cancer care and diagnostic services within Belize.
A suspected arson attack early Sunday morning caused significant damage to three luxury vehicles belonging to the Hotchandani family on Princess Margaret Drive, with losses estimated at nearly half a million Belize dollars.
The incident occurred around 5:05 a.m., shortly after 75-year-old Bob Hotchandani parked his 2022 Cadillac Escalade, valued at $250,000, outside his residence at #132 Barrack Road.
Within minutes, three unidentified men reportedly arrived in a small boat, poured a flammable substance on the Escalade, a 2023 Audi Q7 worth $150,000, and a brown Chevy Silverado owned by 43-year-old Sunjay Hotchandani, valued at $85,000, before igniting the vehicles and fleeing toward Golden Bay.
The Belize Fire Service quickly contained the flames, preventing further damage to nearby structures. Investigators have since recovered a container with suspected accelerant raemains from the scene. While Bob’s Escalade is comprehensively insured, Sunjay’s Silverado only carries third-party coverage.
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has released its “Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean 2024,” providing a comprehensive analysis of the region’s economic performance and projections. The report highlights the persistent challenges and emerging opportunities as the region navigates a complex global economic landscape.
Global Economic Context: In 2024 and 2025, global economic growth is expected to stabilise at around 3.2%, driven primarily by emerging economies. The United States, accounting for 25% of global GDP, is projected to grow by 2.8% in 2024 and 2.2% in 2025, supported by robust consumption and a strong labour market. The eurozone, however, faces slower growth, with Germany experiencing economic stagnation due to declines in key industrial sectors.
Regional Economic Performance: Latin America and the Caribbean are projected to grow by 2.2% in 2024 and 2.4% in 2025. Despite these figures being above the decade’s average growth rate of 1%, they remain insufficient to close the gap with developed economies. The region’s economic activity is increasingly dependent on private consumption, with growth in gross fixed capital formation and net exports remaining weak.
Monetary and Fiscal Policies: The world’s major central banks have expanded liquidity, ending the tight monetary policy cycle of 2022. This has led to increased global liquidity and lower interest rates, benefiting developed economies more than developing ones. In Latin America and the Caribbean, falling inflation and rate cuts in the United States have prompted looser monetary policies. However, the region’s fiscal space remains limited, with rising public debt and interest payments constraining public spending.
Labour Market Trends: The region’s labour markets show modest improvements despite continued low job creation. Employment growth is projected at 1.7% in 2024, with the unemployment rate expected to decline slightly to 6.1%. Informal employment remains high, though it has decreased marginally. Real wages have increased in most countries, driven by falling inflation and nominal wage adjustments.
Inflation and Exchange Rates: Inflation in the region has been steadily declining, from 8.2% in 2022 to a projected 3.4% in 2024. This decline is attributed to falling international food and energy prices and restrictive monetary policies. However, inflation remains above pre-pandemic levels, and exchange rate volatility continues to pose challenges.
External Sector and Debt Issuance: The region’s balance of payments is projected to record a deficit of 1.2% of GDP in 2024, driven by higher interest payments abroad. While foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows have increased, the net transfer of resources abroad remains a concern. Debt issuance on international markets has risen, with thematic bonds gaining popularity as a financing tool.
Challenges and Policy Recommendations: ECLAC emphasises the need for comprehensive policies to overcome the region’s low capacity for growth. This includes mobilising financial resources, strengthening public finances, and implementing productive development policies. Key areas of focus include environmental sustainability, science and technology, digitalisation, and investment in infrastructure.
In a statement delivered at the United Nations Media Briefing in Geneva, International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director General Amy Pope stressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid and international cooperation to support Syria’s recovery after nearly 14 years of conflict.
Pope recently visited Damascus, where the lasting effects of the war are evident. She met with various stakeholders, including the caretaker government, humanitarian groups, civil society, and the diplomatic community. Pope described Syria as being at a critical juncture, with its people determined to rebuild but facing immense uncertainty about the future.
The humanitarian crisis in Syria is staggering. Over 16 million Syrians need assistance, with more than six million displaced abroad and another 7.2 million internally displaced. Pope said that while there is a strong desire for displaced Syrians to return to their homes, premature returns could strain fragile infrastructure, potentially leading to further displacement.
Syria’s infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, has been severely damaged, particularly in cities like Aleppo, which saw the departure of over two million people during the conflict. Pope also highlighted the significant humanitarian needs in the country, from basic shelter and food to the complex task of rebuilding a fractured society.
In addition to immediate relief, Pope called for international support to help stabilise Syria, including the protection of property rights and the promotion of justice and reconciliation. She stressed the importance of ensuring an inclusive society that embraces religious minorities, women, and diverse political groups.
Belize was abuzz with anticipation leading up to the first-ever million-dollar Boledo draw on this Saturday morning, and the excitement culminated when the winning numbers—3446—were announced. Fourteen lucky winners will share the jackpot.
While the draw captured the nation’s attention, sales at some locations, like 88 Shopping Plaza, had been slow in the days leading up to the event. Players shared a mix of confidence and scepticism, with some relying on meaningful combinations inspired by family memories, while others opted out, doubting their luck.
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has officially joined the Good Travel Alliance as a founding destination. This announcement was made at the Green Destinations Conference 2024.
The Good Travel Alliance is a global initiative focused on promoting responsible tourism practices that create positive impacts on communities and the environment.
The alliance aims to make tourism a powerful force for good, prioritising local well-being and environmental preservation. Through this partnership, Belize will further its sustainable tourism efforts by collaborating with other destinations and stakeholders dedicated to these principles.
The BTB says that by joining the alliance, Belize gains access to valuable resources, global partnerships, and innovative tools designed to enhance the country’s tourism practices while benefiting its local communities. The alliance also welcomes other destinations and destination management organisations (DMOs) committed to fostering sustainable travel experiences, expanding the collective impact of these efforts.
BTB said, “We look forward to working collaboratively toward creating meaningful and lasting outcomes that celebrate both our rich culture and remarkable nature in Belize!”
Tonight, several teachers are still waiting for their overdue allowances and increments from the Government of Belize, despite the Ministry of Education’s promise to resolve the issue today. So, what’s causing the delay, and is the government to blame? Late this evening, we spoke with Nadia Caliz, President of the Belize National Teachers Union (B.N.T.U). She explained that while funds have been sent to the respective school managements, other issues are holding up the payments. Caliz stated that the B.N.T.U. has given the government until December thirty-first to fix the problem. She also confirmed that the notice of industrial action in early January is still in effect.
Nadia Caliz, President, Belize National Teachers Union
“I cannot tell you that they have settled it a hundred percent. What I do know is that we met with government on Tuesday for an update and they said that teachers would receive their increments and allowances today. What happened is that from yesterday some teachers were paid and we learned that a huge group did not receive any increment or any allowances. The method the government used was to give the managements a grant and the managements had the responsibility of paying the teachers. Some of the information we received today from a large number of teachers is that they called the managements asking why is it that I wasn’t paid, like, you know, tell me why. And the managements are saying that the commission, it should be TAS, the Teachers Administrative Services, they did not approve it. The teachers then took it upon themselves to call TAS. TAS is now telling them, yes, it was approved from July, from January, they can give specific dates. Call back the managements, “Oh, we did nit get the increment certificates.” So there is a whole series of blame game going on right now. When I think about it, government is trying to pinpoint where the problem is. With all the responses I got today from some of our teachers, they’re trying to pinpoint where the problem is. If you look at it from a Pontius Pilate kind of perspective, “Sih di money ya, pay dehn. You deal wid dehn, you know dehn, you employ dehn, you deal with dehn.”
Isani Cayetano
“And wash their hands of the situation.”
Nadia Caliz
“What we are doing from our end, we are holding everybody accountable. I called Minister Fonseca and I said to him, the teachers are not happy because they have not received it. They assured us that they will touch base with the management. So every name coming in, every information we are getting in, Sister Keisha, sending it forward, we are sending it forward. But it is showing that the managements don’t have the proper mechanism to deal with this. They don’t. And for teachers who are owed two, three, four, five years, it’s worse, and some of them can show you the communication, the responses from the management over a period of time, all of that, and we have been forwarding these things to the TAS, Chie Gongora, and getting back our responses. There is a serious issue with how teachers are being paid and it needs to be corrected. They promised us that they are going to work on it. Well they have started already by mapping out the process, trying to remove all the anomalies so that by the, let me say the first of September, 2025, there is a better system in place.”
Isani Cayetano
“The government, in a sense, has met its pledge. The monies have been paid out. Now you’re looking at a different scenario in terms of getting the money to the teachers. What does January 2025 look like, in light of what would have been any form of industrial action taken by the BNTU and its membership?”
Nadia Caliz
“That is still on. Teachers are demonstrating, or teachers will demonstrate if the situation is not fixed. Government, management, whomsoever is responsible, that demonstration is connected there. They want to register their discontent, it’s time and past time. I cannot tell you that we will proceed. I cannot tell you that we will not proceed. Our deadline, the deadline that the membership voted on is the thirty-first of December and we cannot move the goalpost. That’s the date we gave the government. They made a move from the twentieth to the thirty-first to correct this.”
