2024 - Channel 5 Belize

George Cadle Price: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership and National Pride in Belize

In Belizean history, one name stands out as a beacon of hope, resilience, and visionary leadership: George Cadle Price. Often hailed as the “Father of the Nation,” Price’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Belize’s journey to independence and beyond. His unwavering commitment to peaceful negotiations and his strategic prowess led Belize to its historic independence on September 21, 1981. But Price’s contributions extend far beyond political milestones; he was a cultural icon who fostered national pride, a dedicated public servant whose personal integrity inspired countless Belizeans, and an internationally recognized leader whose influence transcended borders. As we delve into the life and legacy of George Cadle Price, we uncover the story of a man whose vision and dedication continue to shape the identity and future of Belize.

The Visionary Who Forged a Nation

George Cadle Price, revered as the “Father of the Nation,” played a pivotal role in leading Belize to independence. Price Served as head of government under various titles—including Premier and Prime Minister. His strategic negotiations and unwavering commitment to a peaceful approach culminated in Belize achieving independence on September 21, 1981. Price’s vision for a sovereign Belize was not just a political aspiration but a deeply personal mission. As a co-founder of the People’s United Party (PUP) in 1950, he laid the groundwork for a movement that sought political and economic independence, steering the nation towards self-determination.

A Champion of Justice and Unity

Beyond his political accomplishments, Price was a staunch advocate for Belizean culture and identity. From the early 1960s until his retirement in 1996, he served as the nation’s head of government under various titles, including Premier and Prime Minister. His policies and governance style were instrumental in shaping Belize’s political landscape and national identity. Price’s leadership was characterized by a commitment to social justice, economic development, and national unity, which left an indelible mark on the country’s trajectory.

The Heartbeat of Belizean Identity

George Cadle Price was more than just a political leader; he was the embodiment of Belizean culture and pride. His unwavering dedication to fostering a distinct national identity resonated deeply with Belizeans from all walks of life. Through initiatives that promoted local customs, languages, and heritage, Price instilled a sense of belonging and unity among the diverse populations of Belize.

Price was a champion of Belizean identity and culture. His leadership imprinted a sense of national pride and unity among Belizeans. Price’s personal habits exemplified his dedication to civic responsibility and national stewardship. These actions, though simple, resonated deeply with the public and set a standard for community engagement and personal integrity.

A Legacy Respected Beyond Borders

Price’s contributions to Belize and the wider Caribbean did not go unnoticed. In 2000, he was the first recipient of Belize’s highest honor, the Order of National Hero. His legacy extended beyond Belize’s borders, earning him recognition in other Caribbean and Central American countries. Price’s membership in the Privy Council of the United Kingdom further underscored his international stature and the respect he commanded globally.

Eternal Tributes to a National Icon

The legacy of George Cadle Price is immortalized through various statues and memorials across Belize. On September 18, 2024, Belize paid tribute to George Cadle Price with the unveiling of a statue in Battlefield Park, organized by the Government of Belize and the Belize Tourism Board. This event not only celebrated Price’s contributions but also served as a tribute to his enduring legacy as the ‘Father of the Nation.’ Sculpted by Steven Okeke, the statue stands at 16 feet and 7 inches, depicting Price in his iconic Guayabera shirt, symbolizing his commitment to informed leadership with a copy of the Belize Times in his left hand and a welcoming wave with his right.

In addition, the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Price family on September 19, 2024, to ensure the preservation and transformation of the Price Family Home at #3 Pickstock Street, Belize City. This site, recognized for its immense national value, will be repurposed as an “immersive educational environment” with features like a state-of-the-art classroom, botanical gardens, and a sculpture garden. A specially crafted multilingual plaque will honor Price’s legacy and family, ensuring that his contributions remain accessible to all Belizeans and visitors.

National Service Day, observed annually on September 19th, commemorates his contributions and serves as an inspiration for future generations to uphold his values of service and dedication to the nation.

A Life of Humility and Commitment

Price’s legacy is also enriched by personal stories and anecdotes from his family and close associates. These narratives reveal a man of humility, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his country. Inspirational quotes from Price and those who knew him add a personal touch to his story, painting a vivid picture of a leader whose life was devoted to the betterment of Belize.

George Cadle Price’s legacy as the “Father of the Nation” is a rich tapestry of visionary leadership, cultural pride, and unwavering dedication to Belize. His life’s work laid the foundation for an independent and united Belize, and his influence continues to inspire generations. Through his political achievements, cultural impact, and recent tributes, including the statue and the development of his family home into an educational space, Price’s legacy remains a beacon of hope.

1080 x 1350 by Hipolito Novelo

NHC Monitors Potential Weather Systems in the Caribbean Sea

The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) is closely monitoring several low-pressure systems developing across the Atlantic, with one expected to potentially strengthen in the Caribbean Sea next week.

The NHC indicates that a broad low-pressure system may gradually gain strength in the northwestern Caribbean Sea early next week. While the chance of formation is nearly zero in the next 48 hours, it rises to forty percent over the following week.

In the North Atlantic, an area of low pressure associated with the remnants of Gordon is producing disorganised showers and thunderstorms. The NHC reports that “any additional development of this system is expected to be slow.”

Another low-pressure system located near the northern Leeward Islands has a twenty percent chance of formation in both the next forty-eight hours and the following week.

Here Are the Weekend Activities: Land of the Free, Belize Turns 43!

Tomorrow, Saturday, September 21, Belize proudly marks its forty-third anniversary of independence. Throughout this month, Belizeans have enjoyed a vibrant itinerary of events and festivities, proudly displaying the blue, white, and red of Belize’s national flag. But tomorrow is the highlight, as Belizeans come together to celebrate our rich diversity in flora, fauna, cultures, traditions, and people.

From decorating your home in Belize’s national colours to participating in the exciting activities planned for September, how have Belizeans shown their patriotism this month?

Here’s a quick guide to the events you won’t want to miss:

Belize City

September 20

Night Cultural Extravaganza
Location: Memorial Park
Time: 9 PM
Cost: FREE
Official Flag Raising Ceremony, Fireworks Display, and Musical Entertainment
Location: Memorial Park
Time: 11 PM
Cost: FREE
10th Annual Soca & Culture Fest
Location: Belize City Civic Centre
Time: 9 PM
Cost: PAID
Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence
Location: Memorial Park
Time: 8 AM
Cost: FREE

September 21

Uniform and People’s Parade
Route: Principal Streets of Belize City
Time: 9:30 AM
Cost: FREE
21st Belize City Bash
Location: Digi Park
Time: 11 AM
Cost: FREE
W.C.A Presents Red White & Bram Cruise
Time: 1 PM
Cost: PAID

Belmopan

September 20

Taking Back the Land Parade
Route: Principal Streets of Belmopan
Time: 6 PM
Flag Raising Ceremony and Fireworks Display
Location: Governor General’s Field
Time: 11:45 PM
Fireworks After Bash
Location: Smoke Shack
Time: 12 PM

September 21

J’ouvert
Leaves from: Smoke Shack
Time: 3 AM
Official Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Independence
Location: Independence Plaza
Time: 10:30 AM
Belmopan Citizen’s Parade
Route: Principal Streets of Belmopan
Immediately follows the official ceremony
Park Fest
Location: Mae Gordon Park
Time: After the parade

Santa Elena/San Ignacio

September 20

Flag Raising Ceremony, Fireworks Display, and Musical Entertainment
Location: Administration Building
Time: 9 PM

September 21

Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence and Parade
Location: Santa Elena Sporting Complex and through principal streets of SISE
Time: 2 PM

Benque Viejo

September 20

Torch Run, Flag Raising Ceremony, and Fireworks Display
Location: Town Hall
Time: 9 PM

September 21

Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence and Parade
Location: Town Hall and Principal Streets
Time: 9 AM

Orange Walk

September 20

Torch Run, Flag Raising Ceremony, Fireworks Display, and Block Party
Location: Town Hall
Time: 7 PM

September 21

J’ouvert
Route: Principal Streets of Orange Walk
Time: 4 AM
Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence, Citizens Parade, and Block Party
Location: Central Park
Time: 7 PM

Corozal

September 20

Flag Raising Ceremony and Fireworks Display

September 21

Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence and Parade

San Pedro

September 20

Flag Raising Ceremony and Fireworks Display

September 21

Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence and Parade

Dangriga

September 20

Torch Run, Flag Raising Ceremony, and Fireworks Display
Location: BTL Park
Time: 7 PM

September 21

Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence and Parade
Location: BTL Park
Time: 9 AM

Punta Gorda

September 20

Flag Raising Ceremony and Fireworks Display

September 21

Ceremony for the 43rd Anniversary of Belize’s Independence and Parade

Belize Takes Bold Action Against Tax Evasion

Belize takes a bold step towards greater tax fairness by signing the Multilateral Convention to Facilitate the Implementation of the Subject to Tax Rule (STTR MLI) in Paris. This agreement, signed by Financial Secretary Joseph Waight, strengthens Belize’s fight against tax evasion and ensures that multinational corporations contribute their fair share.

According to an official statement from the Government of Belize, this signing marks an important advancement in the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS). “The new STTR MLI will implement the Subject to Tax Rule in bilateral tax treaties, offering developing countries such as Belize a new tool to protect their domestic tax base,” the government stated.

This agreement is part of the Two-Pillar Solution, which was initiated in October 2021 and endorsed by one hundred and thirty-nine countries. It establishes a global minimum tax rate of fifteen percent, ensuring that Multinational Entities (MNEs) pay their fair share of tax in each jurisdiction where they operate. “The Subject-to-Tax Rule is a key component of the agreement and is particularly important for developing countries,” the government added.

Major Cocaine Bust in Sarteneja Village, Four Persons Jailed

Police made a major drug bust in Sarteneja Village on Wednesday night. Personnel from the Mobile Interdiction Team and the Corozal Quick Response Team descended on the home of thirty-five-year-old Armando Torres just after nine o’clock and came across twenty-five parcels of cocaine amounting to twenty-eight kilograms. Present at the time of the search were thirty-six-year-old Mirna Durantes, thirty-two-year-old Delwyn Novelo and thirty-seven-year-old Nigel Neal. Today, all four individuals were formally charged with possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply. They were arraigned at the Corozal Magistrate’s Court, where Torres pleaded guilty with an explanation, while the others pleaded not guilty. No plea was entered for Torres. Here’s Commissioner of Police Chester Williams with additional details.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“The police in Sartaneja, the Corozal District, and particularly the Corozal Police, along with some of the elements that we have currently deployed in the northern area as a part of our northern operations conducted an operation yesterday or last night sometime around 9 p.m. thereabout in this certain area. The operation took them to a home where searches were conducted. The search led to the discovery of twenty-five parcels of what we suspect to be cocaine. The cocaine was taken into police custody along with four persons who were found at the home. The four persons included three male and one female. At the Corozal police station, the suspected cocaine was weighed, and it amounted to just over twenty-eight kilograms. Those persons, as I said, are in police custody and are expected to be charged today with drug trafficking.”

All four individuals have been remanded to the Kolbe Foundation until Friday, November fifteenth, 2024.

Marijuana Field Destroyed, More Cocaine Seized

Police also destroyed a marijuana field in the Rhaburn Ridge community. They also discovered an additional six parcels of cocaine during an operation in Chunox Village. ComPol Williams gave us details on both operations.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“We also recently destroyed a marijuana plantation in the Rhaburn Ridge area. I think Rabourn Ridge would be in the Belize District but falls under the Orange Walk jurisdiction from a police standpoint. Again, that operation was led by elements of the Belize Police Department, and it was based on information obtained they visited the area, and they found the plantation and the plantation was destroyed. We also recently had a drug bust in Corozal District again, where six parcels of suspected cocaine were found at a house. I think in the Chunox Village Area a few persons were detained for that. One person pled guilty when the matter went before the court, and the case was withdrawn against the other. So, it’s an ongoing thing with our operation teams in the north. As you all would be aware that we have the ongoing northern operations, which the government of Belize have invested a lot of money getting the resources that the police officers need to be able to execute our duties in that area.”

PM Maintains Belize is not a Major Drug Transit Point

The United States government has listed Belize as one of the countries used for major drug transit and illicit drug-production for the fiscal year 2025. Other countries listed include the Bahamas, Costa Rica, and Haiti. This designation comes after evaluating the country’s geographic, commercial, and economic factors that facilitate drug transit or production, regardless of a government’s commitment to drug control. We spoke with Prime Minister John Briceño about the label, which he claims isn’t an accurate representation of drug transit in the region.

Britney Gordon

“How can you respond to other countries labeling Belize as a major transit point for illegal drug transport?”

Prime Minister John Briceño

“But that’s not true. We have been working very closely with the United States government. We work very closely with Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico to try to discourage the use of Belize as a transit point. If it notices since we got into government, the number of planes that have landed in Belize has decreased dramatically. Now what has been happening now is that these drug lords, they have all the monies available in the world when you cover, an area or you stop an area, they’ve tried to find another way. What they’ve been doing is they’ve been using the high seas so when they come from South America, they would probably go somewhere that has a coastline like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, probably Honduras. And then from there, then they go straight on to Mexico to the United States. The bust that, that Honduras did, I think it was probably about two tons, if I mentioned of cocaine. All people were chucking it, and I was keeping informed by the Minister of Defense and the Minister of National Security Kareem Musa. And they were checking that, and then when the bust happened in the Honduras water, again they were informed. We are doing our part. Belize is not a transfer point, not anymore. And but right now they’re using the high seas and they probably are going through the exclusive economic zone. We have gotten some drones and we’re hoping that we can get even bigger drones that can go even farther. We’re negotiating right now either with Taiwan or the United States to be able to get boats that can go all the way out there. That’s what I think. We can help more with the interdiction of drugs passing through our waters going on to Mexico and the United States.”

ComPol Rejects U.S. Report of Belize as Major Drug Transit Nation

We also heard from the Commissioner of Police on the U.S. identifying Belize as a major drug transit or a major illicit drug producing country. Like the PM, ComPol Williams says he does not accept the U.S. report.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“I am sure that as members of the media, you no longer hear of drug planes landing in our country. So, I wonder how that came about because the truth is we have done a lot. Our government continues to invest in the police and the BDF and the Coast Guard to be able to ward off these drug traffickers from our country. And we have made significant progress. So, when I read that report, I wondered myself what they’re using to be able to arrive at that conclusion, but it is their assessment of us. I don’t accept it. I’m sure that many Belizeans will not accept it.”

PM Says Opposition Leader is ‘Living in his own World’

On Tuesday, Prime Minister John Briceño addressed the country in his annual State of the Nation speech. In his presentation, the PM highlighted the growth of Belize’s gross domestic product and made the announcement that Belizeans earning under twenty-nine thousand dollars per annum will no longer pay income tax. On Wednesday, Leader of the Opposition, Moses “Shyne” Barrow delivered his response. Barrow countered by noting several businesses that have failed to keep their doors open in recent years, as well as the rate of income tax paid by civilians in comparison to corporations. We asked the Prime Minister for a response to these claims. Here’s what he had to say.

Prime Minister John Briceño

“I would just smile and leave him as it is. I think he lives in his own world and his best, it takes two to tango, but it’s best to leave him there by himself. I think people have seen the work. People are feeling the work that the tremendous work that our government has been doing. More people are working, less people are in poverty. With the changes of the income tax regime, we’re allowing even more people to go into the middle class. The increase of the of the minimum wage to go to five dollars, that in itself. Like you said a tide rises our ship, so raising up to five, the people that were working at five, their salaries have gone up. It has had a a chain, not a ripple, but a chain effect because, it’s spreading off. We are living in a much better place than we were in November of 2020.”

ComPol Chides Opposition Leader over Remarks on Crime

On Wednesday, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams issued a release refuting claims made by Leader of the Opposition Moses “Shyne” Barrow in his State of the Nation address. As we reported, Barrow said that murders were up by forty percent year-to-date. ComPol Williams contended that, in fact, murders are down by one percent. Today, he told reporters that the Opposition Leader is insane for blaming the police and government for crimes being committed.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“I find it strange that my friend, the leader of one of the opposition, I think they have two, right, tend to speak of crime and equate the occurrences of crime to the effectiveness, ineffectiveness of the police or the government. As a person who had in the past committed a crime and convicted of a crime, I am sure that he could attest that despite the fact that the U.S. is a first world country, they possess all the technology to be able to fight crime and prevent crime, he was still able to commit a crime for which he was convicted. And I am sure that he didn’t blame the police in the U. S. for the crime he committed. Neither did he blame the government of the U. S. for the crime he committed. He took responsibility for it. So, for him to now try to blame the police or the government for a crime being committed is rather insane.”