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EXCLUSIVE: UB Lecturer Placed on Administrative Leave Following Sexual Harassment Allegations

A prominent lecturer at the University of Belize (UB) was placed on administrative leave on Thursday, April 10, after complaints of sexual harassment were made against him.

News Five has learnt that UB has at least four complaints against Dr Pio Saqui, who is also the president of the University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union (UBFSU).

This was confirmed with a UB official who told News 5 exclusively, “We have received the allegations. We are taking it seriously. We are engaging transparent and thorough protocols of the UB policies with an intent for speedy and fair resolution based on the necessary investigation.”

News Five has reached out to Dr Saqui for comment multiple times.

The most recent damning complaint is dated April 8. The four complainants alleged that his behaviours included but were not limited to “unwanted touching”, “unsolicited and persistent comments about students’ appearances and bodies”, “repeated requests for hugs and physical contact despite visible discomfort and refusal”, and “invasive questions about students’ personal relationships, sexual activity, and home life”. The letter also referenced testimonies from four students who said Saqui allegedly made sexual remarks, gave unsolicited massages, and engaged in repeated physical contact without consent.

The complainants have requested that Saqui be removed from teaching and field duties pending an impartial investigation and that measures be taken to protect students from retaliation.

They cite the University of Belize Student Handbook (May 2024), “which guarantees students the right to learn in an environment free from harassment, abuse, and intimidation. More urgently, it also breaches the newly enacted Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2024.” The act defines sexual harassment as “any unwelcome sexual advance, comment, gesture, or physical contact of a sexual nature that causes humiliation, intimidation, or creates an offensive environment.”

The complaints, dating back to 2010, include reports from students who allege Saqui sent them inappropriate messages, made repeated advances, and engaged in behaviour they described as unprofessional and harassing.

We are told that the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Human Development, Family Support & Gender Affairs have been made aware of the allegations. To date, no official police report has been made.

Full story on News 5 Live at 6 p.m.

NTUCB Responds to Serious Allegations Against Union Leader

The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a statement addressing serious allegations of rape involving a senior member of the trade union community. The NTUCB says it has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual violence, abuse, and misconduct.

In the press release, the NTUCB expressed its commitment to justice, advocating for empathy towards both the alleged victim and the accused. The umbrella union stressed the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law.

“The NTUCB remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and respect in all public and professional areas of life. We will continue to monitor this matter closely and support the affiliate union in its rightful authority to advocate for fair and equitable justice.”

As we reported, a well-known union leader and activist is facing serious allegations of sexual assault stemming from an incident that reportedly occurred six years ago. The alleged victim, who has chosen to remain anonymous, recently shared her story with News Five, expressing frustration over the lack of justice despite her attempts to have the man arrested and charged.

According to the woman, the assault took place in the early morning hours of April 13, 2019, following a period of persistent unwanted advances from the man, which began as early as 2017. She said she had repeatedly made it clear that she was not interested in a romantic relationship and only agreed to meet with him under the condition that they would discuss union-related matters.

However, what she believed would be a brief, work-focused conversation turned into a nightmare. The woman alleges that after taking her to a local establishment, the man offered to drive her home but stopped on the roadside between Rustic Korner and Haulover, where he then forced himself on her. She described how he pulled up her dress, tore at her clothing, and raped her, despite her pleas and refusals.

To date, she says no charges have been brought against the alleged perpetrator, and her calls for accountability have gone unanswered. The case raises renewed questions about justice, abuse of power, and the silencing of victims within professional spaces.

PSU Slams Briceño Administration Over Salary Increases Amid ‘Worker Struggles’

The Public Service Union of Belize (PSU) has issued a scathing condemnation of the Briceño Administration, accusing it of “shameless self-enrichment” while public officers continue to face stagnant wages and economic hardship.

In a strongly worded release likening the administration to the corrupt leadership in George Orwell’s Animal Farm, the PSU blasted recent salary hikes for top government officials.

As we have reported, the pay adjustments, outlined in a government memo dated March 28, were approved with retroactive effect from March 13—just days after the 2025 general election.

Under the new terms, Cabinet Secretary Stuart Leslie’s annual salary increases to $96,000, while Chief Executive Officers will now earn $88,000—an increase of 15.7% from their previous salary of $76,000.

“These grotesque displays of self-interest come while public officers are still waiting for the reinstatement of three withheld increments, equivalent to a 7.5% salary adjustment,” the union stated. It also noted that roughly 40% of public servants earn under $20,000 a year and are struggling to survive on what it describes as poverty wages.

The PSU criticised the Financial Secretary and CEO Caucus for enabling what it called a “culture of exploitation” and questioned whether CEOs seeking private-sector-level pay should remain in public service. “The people of Belize deserve leaders who serve them, not predators who exploit them,” the union declared.

The PSU warned that these top-level salary adjustments could trigger a domino effect, potentially increasing ministers’ salaries to match the new $96,000 base. “If these CEOs desire private-sector-level compensation for their largely ceremonial roles, they should exit the public sector and “prove their worth” in the corporate world.”

The union is calling for immediate action from the Briceño Administration to address long-standing concerns affecting public officers. Among its key demands is a 7.5% salary adjustment to account for three withheld increments. The PSU is also requesting an increase in transfer grants from $1,200 to $1,500, in line with the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), along with retroactive payments to officers who have been underpaid since 2021. Additionally, the union is urging the government to respond promptly to the Joint Unions’ CBA framework to advance stalled negotiations. The PSU has given the administration a 21-day deadline to issue a written commitment to fulfill these demands.

The PSU also reminded its members that “you don’t get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate,” and urged all public officers to remain united. The union warned that if the administration fails to act, it will have no choice but to mobilise for collective industrial action.

“Enough is enough,” the release concluded. It says the government “must cease its parasitic enrichment and honour its obligations to the people who sustain this nation.”

Easter Fun this Weekend, and Financial Hangover Tuesday Morning? Think Again

It’s that time of year again—when the sun is blazing, the beaches are calling, and Belizeans are packing up for fun-filled Easter getaways with family and friends. But while the long weekend promises memories and adventure, it also brings a big temptation: overspending.

Local economist and financial consultant Rumile Arana, owner of Arana Consultancies, has a few pieces of advice to keep in mind during these days. He urges Belizeans to keep a close eye on their wallets and not fall into common financial traps.

“The whole idea of you having the urge that you need to go somewhere or be at a big resort during Easter is simply just that we are buying into this whole consumerism type of culture,” Arana warned.

Easter is one of those holidays where many forget to plan ahead—especially when it comes to money. Social pressure, last-minute planning, and even quick loans often lead people to spend way more than they should. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

To help Belizeans enjoy the Easter vibes without the financial hangover, Arana shared five important tips that could save a wallet outcry:

Create a Budget: Plan your spending in advance. Allocate set amounts for food, drinks, transport, and entertainment. The big reminder here? Your next payday might still be weeks away. Spend accordingly.
Pool Resources: Road trips? Beach weekends? Arana says make it a team effort. Carpooling or group trips to share transport and accommodation costs can seriously ease the load on your wallet.
Buy in Advance: Impulse buys at events or bars can quickly add up. Arana recommends a smarter approach: purchasing alcohol and snacks beforehand to cut costs. A little pre-planning goes a long way.
Opt for Cost-Effective Trips: Not every memorable Easter needs to be a luxury vacation. Day trips to riversides or local beaches offer enjoyment without the hefty price tag. Arana also suggests booking places with small kitchens so you can cook and save on meals.
Avoid Loans for Leisure: This one’s a biggie. “If you have to borrow money to enjoy your Easter, you’re always already starting off on the wrong foot,” Arana warned. Holiday-time loan offers are everywhere, but he warns: don’t fall for them. Basically, you’re sacrificing future income for short-term fun.

While it is healthy to have fun every now and then, it’s important to remember that there will be days to follow the excitement of the long Easter weekend. With a bit of planning and smart choices, every family can have a great time without waking up Tuesday morning full of financial regret.

Here’s one of Arana’s “braata” advices: saving for next year’s Easter can start right after this year’s one. Setting aside a couple of dollars every month towards next year’s Easter can start building the discipline one needs during times when one is tempted to splurge for the moment’s experience.

So before you hit the road, pack the cooler, or book that weekend escape—make sure your budget’s in check. Your future self will thank you.

Tourist Mobility Pass Now Available for Belizean Visitors to Quintana Roo

Belizean tourists travelling to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo can now take advantage of the Tourist Mobility Pass—a free digital tool designed to improve the visitor experience and safeguard their rights while in the region.

The pass is available through the website https://guestassist.mx/servicios/pase-movilidad and can be accessed via the Guest Assist app, which is regulated by the Government of Quintana Roo. Visitors can download the app from the App Store or Google Play and complete a simple form with their personal information to activate the pass on their mobile devices.

Among the key benefits of the Tourist Mobility Pass is that it grants two courtesy traffic tickets for minor infractions. It also prevents the confiscation of official documents in cases where a non-serious traffic violation occurs during their stay.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the State Tourism Secretariat of Quintana Roo, the State Traffic Department, and business organisations in the southern zone, including the Association of Hotels of Central and Southern Quintana Roo, Coparmex Chetumal, Canirac Chetumal Bacalar, and Canaco Servytur.

Authorities strongly encourage Belizean travellers to obtain their Tourist Mobility Pass before entering Mexico and to present it to traffic officers if required. The measure is intended to ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable experience for Belizean visitors to the state.

Caribbean Court of Justice Celebrates 20 Years of Upholding Regional Rule of Law

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) commemorated its 20th anniversary on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with an interfaith service of reflection and prayer at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The ceremony brought together regional dignitaries, legal professionals, and members of the diplomatic corps, with Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, in attendance.

The event marked two decades since the CCJ’s establishment in 2005 as the region’s final appellate court and the guardian of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. During that time, the Court has delivered over 400 appellate judgements and 37 decisions in its original jurisdiction, many of which have addressed constitutional rights, trade disputes, and the free movement of CARICOM nationals.

CCJ President, the Honourable Mr Justice Adrian Saunders, described the anniversary as a moment for gratitude, noting the Court’s commitment to justice, innovation, and independence. Commissioner Sophia Chote SC echoed those sentiments, praising the Court’s high standards and contributions to legal education through the CCJ Academy for Law.

GOB Moves to Address Ongoing Erosion on Placencia Peninsula

In response to growing concerns from residents of the Placencia Peninsula, three key government ministries have pledged urgent action to tackle the ongoing coastal erosion threatening the area. The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Solid Waste Management; the Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum & Mining; and the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing convened this week to discuss a collaborative response to the escalating environmental issue.

According to a joint statement, the Government of Belize has acknowledged the erosion problem and committed to identifying and addressing both natural and human-induced factors contributing to the degradation of the coastline.

Officials stressed that the impacts of climate change continue to pose serious risks to Belize’s coastal communities, endangering not only natural resources and beaches but also private property and livelihoods.

Residents have raised alarm about a range of contributing factors, including the construction of structures that disrupt the natural movement of sediment and the extraction of sand in the area. The government noted that these concerns were central to discussions at the inter-ministerial meeting, where short-, medium-, and long-term solutions were considered.

As part of its immediate plan of action, the government outlined six key steps:

Engage with local community leaders to ensure municipal stakeholders are informed and included in planning efforts.
Improve communication between regulatory bodies overseeing permits related to mining, construction, and mangrove alteration.
Rigorously enforce environmental regulations to prevent unauthorised activities that may worsen erosion.
Increase the frequency of compliance inspections to monitor approved developments that could contribute to the problem.
Present stakeholder concerns and proposed solutions to the Cabinet for swift consideration.
Seek support for scientific studies to inform sustainable long-term decision-making.

The ministries also expressed appreciation for ongoing research being conducted by the University of South Florida and for the active role played by local communities in highlighting the issue.

LOO Tracy Panton Criticises Briceño Administration for Salary Increases Without Approved Budget

Opposition Leader Tracy Panton has heavily criticised the Briceño Administration over the newly approved salary hike for CEOs and the Cabinet Secretary, calling the move “alarming” as the country operates without an approved national budget.

Panton stated on social media, “As we await the reading of the budget for this current fiscal year, the Cabinet Secretary is giving himself and the members of the CEO Caucus a hefty salary increase.”

Panton’s remarks stem from the pay adjustments, revealed in a government memo dated 28 March, which were approved with retroactive effect from 13 March—just days after the 2025 general election.

Cabinet Secretary Stuart Leslie’s annual salary now rises to $96,000, while CEOs will receive $88,000, up from $76,000, which is a 15.7% jump.

Panton told News 5 that this pay adjustment has come during a time that frontline public workers continue to operate under poor conditions, and some have even been let go without a full audit.

“This is being done at a time when we don’t have an approved budget, when the government continues to operate with unauthorised spending at this time. Our fiscal year ended on March 31st. We should have in place by now a budget that was read, and approved and debated – that is not the case,” she said.

Panton added that she is only aware, as much as the public, that Prime Minister John Briceño intends to present the budget for debate until mid-May.

“While you should be compensated certainly for your experience and expertise and what you bring to the table, your first duty and responsibility is to the people. And so when you enter public service, you enter understanding that you cannot be paid a private sector rate because we have to live within a budget that will be hopefully focused on delivering services to people. We serve the people; the people don’t serve us,” Panton told News 5.

UK Supreme Court Rules Legal Definition of ‘Woman’ Is Based on Biological Sex

In a landmark decision delivered today, the UK Supreme Court has ruled unanimously that, under the Equality Act 2010, the legal definition of a woman refers specifically to biological sex. The judgment clarifies that individuals with a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) who identify as female do not fall within the legal definition of a “woman” for the purposes of sex-based rights.

Reading from an 88-page judgment, Deputy President Lord Hodge stated that the “concept of sex is binary,” though he stressed the ruling should not be viewed as a win for one side or a loss for another. Importantly, the court reaffirmed that transgender individuals still have legal protection from discrimination under the Equality Act.

The case stemmed from a challenge by For Women Scotland, a women’s rights advocacy group, against the Scottish government’s attempt to redefine “woman” in legislation to include transgender women with GRCs. The court sided with For Women Scotland, concluding that such a definition would be inconsistent with the Equality Act.

In response to the ruling, For Women Scotland said it was “grateful” for the decision after a “long road” of legal battles. On the other hand, LGBTQ+ rights organization Scottish Trans called the verdict “devastating” and urged supporters “not to panic.”

While hailed by some as a “watershed moment” for sex-based rights and a “victory for biology and common sense,” the ruling has stirred anxiety within the trans community over the future of legal protections and recognition.

The Scottish government, which lost the case, said it had acted “in good faith” in its interpretation of the law, and pledged to work with Westminster to better understand the implications of the judgment.

Police Remind Businesses of Liquor Sales Ban for Easter Weekend

As Easter approaches, the Belize Police Department is reminding liquor license holders across the country to observe the legal restrictions on the sale of alcohol during the holiday weekend.

In a directive issued on April 15, 2025, the Commissioner of Police relies on key provisions under Section 27 of the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act and Regulation 5 of the Liquor License Regulations. The memo outlines that no liquor is to be sold, exposed for sale, consumed, or delivered on licensed premises at any time during the mandated closure period, including Good Friday, April 18, from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Only restaurant license holders may serve liquor—and only under one condition: it must be sold with a full meal, and the alcohol must be consumed while eating. The law clearly states that no alcohol sales are permitted without a meal on that day.

Police Commanders have been tasked with conducting inspections to ensure strict compliance with all aspects of the law. They are also reminded to monitor for violations such as:

Unauthorized alterations to premises without board approval.
Persons found on licensed premises during closure periods.

The directive emphasizes that only the license holder or their employees may be present at licensed establishments when they are officially closed.

The police are urging full cooperation to ensure that the Easter weekend remains safe and peaceful.