BPM Raises Urgent Concerns Over Voters List Case

The Belize Peace Movement (BPM) is calling for an expedited hearing in a legal challenge concerning alleged electoral malapportionment. The group is warning that the upcoming general election scheduled for March 12, 2024, could be unconstitutional.

The case, Claim 730 of 2024, was filed in the High Court on November 21, 2024, arguing that if the election proceeds without addressing discrepancies in electoral divisions, the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) would be violating the Constitution of Belize. The BPM contends that such a scenario would infringe on Belizeans’ fundamental right to equal protection under the law and could perpetuate unfair representation for another five years.

The High Court previously instructed both the Claimants and Defendants to submit their legal positions by January 13, 2025, to determine whether the matter is res judicata—meaning whether it has already been legally settled—and to decide on the issue of costs. Both parties have complied, and a ruling is pending.

The BPM’s concerns have escalated following Prime Minister John Briceño’s announcement of the general election on March 12, 2024. The group fears that conducting the election under the existing malapportionment would lead to constitutional injustice, undermine democratic legitimacy, and compromise the government’s credibility.

They argue that an election conducted under these conditions could contradict the Constitution’s intent and alter Belize’s form of government by failing to ensure equitable voter representation.

The Claimants’ legal team has formally requested an expedited hearing of the case, but according to the BPM, there has been no response from the Defendants, which include the government and the Elections and Boundaries Commission.

BPM is urging the Prime Minister, the Attorney General, and the EBC’s legal representatives to support an expedited process, arguing that delaying a resolution would cast doubt on the legitimacy of the election.