Benita Keme-Palacio - Channel 5 Belize

International Leaders Celebrate Belize’s 43rd Independence

Thousands of Belizeans filled the streets of cities, towns, and villages across the nation on Saturday as Belize celebrated 43 years of independence.

In Belmopan, the Prime Minister, John Briceño, and other leaders delivered speeches during the annual ceremony at Independence Hill. In his Independence Day Address, Briceño stated, “We are 400,000 living on some of the most pristine islands, in picturesque villages, in bustling cities and towns, small communities of diverse people whose aspirations are for the creation of one nation. Proud and free.”

Briceño urged Belizeans to look beyond their differences: “A true-born Belizean looks not at another Belizean’s differences, but at what are those things we share in common. We learnt this from our ancestors, who toiled, often against the odds, to build a resilient nation. Despite the odds which subjected them to a cruel colonialism, they left for us a moral compass, suasion, that is today inspired in us. The desire to construct societies that celebrate diversity, appreciate openness and value social justice, liberty, and national happiness. They instill in us the importance of protecting and sharing our natural patrimony.”

Messages of congratulations came from various nations.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasised the shared commitment to democracy and cooperation on issues such as climate change: “September 21 serves not only as an opportunity to recognise Belize’s independence but also to celebrate the strong partnership between the United States and Belize. Our enduring bond is anchored by our shared commitments to democratic values, the rule of law, and respect for human rights for all… Our respective and joint efforts to combat transnational crime and address climate change help ensure future generations of our peoples have a safe, secure, and clean future,” citing the signing of the $125 million Millennium Challenge Corporation Belize Compact.

In a message to the Belizean people, CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett, a Belizean herself, praised Belize for its contributions to regional integration and environmental protection. She stated, “The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘A Nation Proud and Free: Belize@43’ speaks to Belize’s rich heritage and strong foundations.”

Dr. Barnett highlighted Belize’s role as a leader in environmental protection. “The Caribbean Community also recognises the contributions that Belize has made to the regional integration movement as a CARICOM member state, including in justice and governance, for which the country’s prime minister holds responsibility in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet,” the Secretary-General said.

She acknowledged Belize’s membership in both CARICOM and the Central American Integration System (SICA) “has proven key to bolstering relations between the Community and Central America.”

Teachers Protest for Fair Wages on Independence Day

As the nation celebrated Independence Day, a group of teachers from the Stann Creek District stood in silent demonstration at BTL Park in Dangriga Town. They demanded fair wages amid rising inflation.

They were joined in support by second-year primary education students.

Images of the demonstration show teachers holding placards that said, “Salaries minus increments plus inflation equal SUFFERING,” and “Bread gone up, egg gone up, cheese gone up… teachers’ salaries gone down.”

A participant told News 5, “Despite the government’s consistent declarations of a rapidly growing economy and historical prosperity, the reality for teachers is that they are still suffering having to survive on 2020 salaries in 2024 while inflation increases consistently.”

“The question still remains: When will teachers receive their 2021 and 2022 increments?” the participant added.

Celebrate Safely: ‘Don’t Drink and Drive’

This week, Belize launched a “Don’t Drink and Drive” campaign to promote road safety ahead of the Independence Day festivities on September 21. Led by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the initiative started in the Cayo district with bumper sticker distribution.

In Stann Creek, local officials and police collaborated to spread the message, while in Punta Gorda, the National Drug Abuse Control Council teamed up with health services and police for awareness efforts.

Today, the National Drug Abuse Control Council, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and the Belize District Office joined forces with the Central Health Region, and the Belize Police Department joined in, urging citizens to celebrate responsibly.

The Ministry encourages everyone to prioritise safety and to celebrate responsibly:

“Don’t Drink and Drive!”

The Making of a National Symbol: Remembering Samuel Alfred Haynes and the Birth of a Nation’s Anthem

As Belize approaches its 43rd Independence Day celebration on September 21, Belizeans home and abroad are preparing to wear their patriotism on their sleeves. While many will proudly sing the national anthem, “O Land of the Free,” few are able to fully appreciate the profound story behind it. The poet who penned these iconic words is Samuel Alfred Haynes, one of Belize’s most admired figures to enrich Belizean history. Haynes’s contributions to national identity and pride warrant lasting commemoration.

From Soldier to Activist: The Making of a National Hero

Samuel Alfred Haynes was not just a poet but a soldier, social activist, and leader whose life was marked by both struggle and triumph. Born over a century ago in Belize, Haynes served in World War I, fighting for the British Empire alongside other colonial soldiers. However, the harsh realities of racial discrimination and unfair treatment during the war left a deep impact on him. His return to Belize was marked by disillusionment and anger, culminating in his role as a leader in the 1919 Ex-Servicemen’s Riot, where he and fellow veterans protested against the racial injustice they faced.

This experience, coupled with his involvement in local movements and the Marcus Garvey movement, helped shape Haynes’ perspective on Belize’s social and political landscape. His activism wasn’t just about fighting for rights but also about creating a cultural and national identity that reflected Belize’s unique heritage and struggles.

Crafting a National Symbol: The Anthem’s Journey

In 1963, Haynes channelled his experiences and frustrations into writing a poem originally titled “Land of the Gods.” This piece was a poignant reflection of Belize’s past and aspirations, resonating with themes of liberation and identity. The poem’s transformation into the national anthem, “O Land of the Free,” marked a significant shift in Belizean history. On September 21, 1981, as Belize celebrated its independence from British rule, Haynes’ anthem was officially adopted, symbolising the nation’s newfound freedom and unity.

The anthem’s adoption was more than a formality; it was a statement of Belize’s emerging identity and a tribute to its journey from colonial subjugation to self-determination. The anthem’s powerful opening line, “O Land of the Free by the Carib Sea,” embodies this transition, celebrating both the natural beauty of Belize and its people’s resilience.

However, the anthem has not been without controversy. Critics have pointed out that the lyrics may not fully represent the diversity of Belize’s population, including concerns about gender and ethnic representation.

Despite these criticisms, the anthem remains a powerful symbol of Belizean identity. It encapsulates the nation’s history and its collective aspirations, making it a crucial part of national celebrations and a source of pride for many Belizeans.

Legacy and Recognition: An Unsung Hero’s Impact

While Haynes’ anthem has been celebrated as a national symbol, his broader legacy is one of significant but often overlooked impact. His efforts to address racial discrimination and promote Belizean identity have had lasting effects on the country’s cultural and social landscape. Despite the challenges he faced, Haynes’ work in both the military and the cultural sphere illustrates his commitment to justice and national pride.

As the nation prepares to raise its flag on Saturday in celebration of “A Nation Proud and Free: Belize at 43,” it is essential to sing the national anthem with pride, remembering Samuel Alfred Haynes not just as the author of the anthem but as a symbol of perseverance and patriotism. His life and work reflect a broader struggle for justice and identity, making him a true Belizean hero whose contributions continue to inspire and resonate.

Reflecting on Our Heritage

Reflecting on Haynes’ story allows us to appreciate the deeper meanings behind our national symbols. His anthem serves as a reminder of Belize’s journey from colonialism to independence and the ongoing commitment to unity and pride. On September 21, Belize will not only celebrate national identity but also honour the unsung heroes like Haynes, whose legacies shaped Belize’s history and future.

Lyrics of Belize’s National Anthem – “O Land of the Free”

(Written poem by Samuel Alfred Haynes, adopted on Independence Day, September 21, 1981)

O, Land of the Free by the Carib Sea,
Our manhood we pledge to thy liberty!
No tyrants here linger, despots must flee
This tranquil haven of democracy
The blood of our sires which hallows the sod,
Brought freedom from slavery, oppression’s rod
By the might of truth, and the grace of God,
No longer shall we be hewers of wood.

Chorus:

Arise! ye sons of the Baymen’s clan,
Put on your armour, clear the land!
Drive back the tyrants, let despots flee –
Land of the Free by the Carib Sea!
Nature has blessed thee with wealth untold,
O’er mountains and valleys where prairies roll;
Our fathers, the Baymen, valiant and bold
Drove back the invader; this heritage hold
From proud Rio Hondo to old Sarstoon,
Through coral isle, over blue lagoon;
Keep watch with the angels, the stars and moon;
For freedom comes tomorrow’s noon.
(Chorus)

New Route for Sugar City Carnival Parade

New Route for Sugar City Carnival Parade

The Carnival Road March is set to take place in Sugar City this Saturday, September 21. Due to ongoing preparations on Main and Baker’s Street, organisers have adjusted the Carnival route.

Announced on September 13, the new route for the Organge Walk Carnival will begin at Queen Victoria Avenue, heading north. Here are the details:

North on Queen Victoria Avenue
Left onto Cinderella Street
Left onto Dunn Street
Enter Guadalupe Street
Right onto the Northern Highway
Left onto Sarstoon Street
Left onto Liberty Avenue
Continue straight on the Northern Highway
End at Queen Victoria Avenue in front of Town Hall

This year, you can look forward to the following participants:

Exciting Participants Include:

1. Police
2. Traffic
3. National Transport Police Cadets
4. BDF Cadets
5. Mexican Police Banda de Guerra
6. Officials
7. Inclusion Matters (Bus)
8. Sarteneja LIRCS Drum Corp
9. Saint John’s College Float
10. San Estevan Lions Drum Corp
11. BSI/ASR Float
12. Rising Phoenix Dance Group
13. CDC Drum Corp
14. Futuristic Carnival Group
15. Uprising Drum Corp
16. Minorette’s Marching Band
17. Guinea Grass Carnival Group
18. MIDH Float
19. Trench Town Masqueraders
20. Phillip Herbert (Kaya)
21. GMX Gabriel Garcia Float
22. Tumblers
23. La Grandiosa Banda Ciencia (Peten)
24. Los Hijos Del West Marimba
25. Escuela Mexico Marching Band
26. Pandemonium Steel Band
27. Cuello’s Distillery Float
28. Belizean Jewels
29. Corozal Free Zone Float
30. My Lights Float & Carnival Group
31. Centaur Communications Float
32. Titans Mas Band
33. Town Council Float
34. Belizean Jewels
35. CIB Float
36. Libertad Masqueraders
37. Digi Float
38. Soca Moca Mas Band
39. Belikin Truck
40. Campari Truck
41. Pump Jam Sounds Jump Up Float
42. Ministry Of Agriculture Float

New Route for Belize City Independence Day Parade

The Belize City Council has announced a new route for the Annual Belize City Independence Day Uniform Parade on Saturday, September 21. This change is in response to recent flooding caused by the rising water levels from the Belize River.

The parade is a highlight of the September activities that students and spectators anticipate every Independence Day.

The procession begins at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday and makes its way from the Government House. It will move along Yarborough Road, crossing the bridge to Queen Charlotte Street, then onto Fairweather and Dolphin streets. From there, it will turn onto Magazine Roade, proceed left onto Vernon Street, and end at the Berger Field.

Corozal Construction Worker Fatally Falls from Fourth Floor

A construction worker tragically lost his life after falling from the fourth floor of a six-story building at Clearwater Resort, in San Pedro, on Thursday morning.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud thud just moments before finding the body of 45-year-old Abisur Loza of Patchakan Village, Corozal, lying face up on the ground, with visible injuries, including blood around his ears, eyes, nose, and mouth.

According to an investigation carried out by San Pedro police, fellow construction worker Arnold Villanueva reported that he saw Loza working alone near the edge of the fourth floor prior to the fall.

Loza’s body was transported to the San Pedro Polyclinic, where he was pronounced dead.

This is an ongoing investigation.

UDP: ‘Police Figures Appear to Have Been Compromised’

The United Democratic Party (UDP) has unleashed a scathing attack on Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, accusing him of manipulating crime statistics to mask a spiralling citizen security crisis.

During his State of the Nation address delivered from the UDP headquarters on Wednesday, Opposition Leader Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow asserted that crime rates have surged this year.

Shortly thereafter, ComPol Williams countered Barrow’s claims in a press release, describing the data presented by the opposition leader as false information. In an interview on Thursday, Williams stood by the integrity of the crime statistics, accusing Barrow of misleading the public: “We cannot allow him to mislead the Belizean people,” he said, adding, “He knows the reality of where we stand with crime statistics.”

In an official statement released today, the UDP condemned the Commissioner for what they described as “deliberate manipulation of crime statistics with intent to deceive citizens about the state of security in our nation.”

“We note with grave concern his politically charged response to the duly elected Leader of the Opposition in the form of a press release laced with lies, partisan rhetoric and campaign promises,” the UDP continued.

The statement emphasized, “Despite the greatest efforts on the part of the Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, and Police Minister, Kareem Musa, fabricated crime statistics will not improve citizens’ sense of security and the reality faced daily by Belizeans.”

“It is also important to note that the police figures appear to have been compromised,” the UDP added, suggesting a deliberate attempt to downplay the severity of the situation.

The UDP urged Prime Minister Briceno to recognize the shortcomings of the current leadership under Kareem Musa and Chester Williams, calling their leadership “a disastrous failure.”

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.