B.D.F. soldiers have voiced concerns about their pay during the upcoming deployment to Haiti, especially given the extreme violence still plaguing the country. Reflecting on his own experience in Haiti back in 1994, B.D.F. Commander Azariel Loria shared insights into the inherent risks soldiers face in such a volatile environment.
Brig. Gen. Azariel Loria, B.D.F. Commander
“It’s a bunch of us, it was a platoon of us that deployed back in ’94 and we were on rotation. All that we were provided in terms of allowance, per diem, was five dollars a day, five U.S. dollars to deploy in a hostile situation and we were deployed under Chapter Seven of the UN operations. So we were allowed to use our weapons, deadly force, as the case may be. Five dollars. We did it, I did it because I wanted the experience. The soldiers wanted the experience and we did it from the heart, from the willingness to serve, going there to Haiti and trying to make a difference. Now, the allowances that they will be provided, the soldiers, the thirty or so soldiers that will be deployed, they are going to get fifty U.S. dollars a day, plus the allowance is that you have fifty U.S. dollars a day, plus what you have mentioned about the risk and hardship allowance in addition to the fifty [dollars] so you do the math.”
Journalist and veteran court reporter Barbara Gayle has been found dead at her home in St. Catherine in Jamaica.
Preliminary reports indicate that Gayle may have been murdered, with police suspecting that her vehicle was also stolen. Details surrounding the incident remain limited as authorities continue their investigation.
With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, Gayle was widely regarded as Jamaica’s leading court reporter. Her work with The Gleaner saw her covering cases across the parish courts, circuit courts, the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, and even the Privy Council in the United Kingdom.
Earlier this year, Gayle was honoured by the Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) for her outstanding contribution to journalism. She was well-known for her meticulous reporting on high-profile court cases, earning the respect of her peers and the legal community alike.
Fifteen-year-old Anthony Leslie from Belize High School has made a name for himself by becoming one of the youngest students to win an award at the Model OAS Conference last month. This event simulates the International Organization of American States conference, where representatives discuss regional issues. Anthony is determined to be a trailblazer and has his sights set on a political career. We caught up with Anthony today to learn more about his exciting experience and his dreams of becoming one of Belize’s great leaders. Here’s News Five’s Britney Gordon with the story.
Britney Gordon, Reporting
Fifteen-year-old Anthony Leslie has big dreams of becoming a politician, but even bigger dreams of changing the world. As a sophomore at Belize High School, he’s already thinking about the future of Belize. His passion for politics was sparked a few years ago during a school project simulating an election, where he naturally ran for Prime Minister. Now, Anthony is making waves in international debates, like the Model Organization of American States conference, where his talent for debate truly shines.
Anthony Leslie
Anthony Leslie, MOAS Award Winner
“The conference was held in Washington, D.C., of all places, at the real OAS. Headquarters. So what I loved about that is that you are sitting in the spots that real diplomats were sitting at. So you could really get into the zone there. You could feel as if you’re actually making a difference. And that’s the purpose of the model. OAS, it’s bringing youth together just like me to solve real world issues. And that’s what I hope to see from future youth in Belize. and the Americas as a whole for a better democracy in our world.”
Every year, Belize High School sends a delegation to the conference, with guidance from their teachers and parents. Usually, first-year students aren’t included, as they’re still getting used to high school life. But Anthony was an exception. Selected as a freshman, his teachers saw something special in him—his undeniable passion.
Judy Carillo
Judy Carillo, Teacher, B.H.S.
“ Last year, I was teaching the freshmen, and Anthony was one of those students who told me they’re interested in doing the Model OAS. And one thing that stood out to me about Anthony is that whenever he would address an audience, he naturally has a command of voice. He’s able to project his voice, bring his points across persuasively and passionately. And anytime that he speaks, he always has a strong message for the audience.”
The conference was centered on youth, a topic that greatly concerns Anthony. He became one of the youngest students from his school to receive an award for his exemplary performance during the debate.
Thanks to his impressive performance, Anthony was offered an internship at the OAS organization, giving him the chance to further develop his skills and expand his network. He attributes his success in debate to the unwavering support and encouragement from his school and parents. His father, Antony Leslie, shared that the family has always nurtured Anthony’s academic interests and taught him how to balance his studies with his mental health.
Anthony Leslie
Anthony Leslie, Anthony’s Father
“ You can never be prepared for greatness. It just comes, right? But, we see how studious he is. In Standard six, he was valedictorian, right? He missed out on valedictorian by point zero five, right? So that even drove him to want to accomplish greatness. And do more, right? He’s a perfectionist he’s a perfectionist and we tell him Anthony, you can’t win and come in first all the time But if you work hard enough if you study hard enough If you prepare more than anybody else You could win, I’m coming first, most of the times.”
Anthony says that he will keep dreaming big, for himself and the other trailblazers to come after him. He takes every win as an opportunity to push his country towards further greatness.
Anthony Leslie
“I don’t only feel proud of myself, but I feel proud of my peers. And my parents because II couldn’t have done this without them because all my peers, my advisors, they’re cheering me on. They’re training me. They’re showing me how to do this. And I feel that I can be a catalyst, a catalyst that can change this world.”
Gunmen in Acapulco, Mexico, fatally shot Judge Edmundo Román Pinzón outside a courthouse on Wednesday afternoon. The attack occurred as the senior judge, who previously served as president of Guerrero’s highest court, was driving out of the courthouse car park.
Judge Pinzón was struck by at least four bullets. Police are interviewing witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage, but no arrests have been made. Security forces have intensified operations in the resort city to apprehend those responsible.
The judge presided over cases involving murders, kidnappings, and car thefts. While the motive for his murder remains unclear, officials say the crime shows escalating violence in Guerrero, a southern state plagued by deadly attacks on public officials.
Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado Pineda condemned the killing, calling for “immediate justice.”
Acapulco, once a glamorous tourist destination, has become a battleground for rival gangs vying for control of the drug trade.
This week, Belize wrapped up its first one-year term as the temporary president of the Regional Conference on Migration (RCM). The RCM is a multilateral forum with eleven member countries, including Belize, and five observer nations. During its leadership, the Ministry of Immigration got an up-close look at how member states collaborate to tackle shared migration challenges and responsibilities in the region. Belize has now passed the baton to Costa Rica, which will take the lead in 2025.
Tanya Santos
Tanya Santos, C.E.O, Ministry of Immigration
“We have heard that progress towards our goal is hindered by the multitude of intersecting crises, ranging from economic stability to the intensifying impact of climate change and disaster. These challenges test the resilience of our migration systems and the capacity of our government and partners to respond effectively. However, our discussion over the past two days have underscore enduring value of corporation as a means to overcome obstacles. We are further bound to this mandate through principles outlined in leading international documents, such as Objective Twenty-Three for the Global Compact of Migration and SDG seventeen which empathize strengthened international corporation and shared responsibilities for our goals.”
The Department of Youth Services wrapped up National Youth Week with its annual National Youth Award Ceremony in Punta Gorda on November twenty-ninth. This event celebrated the creativity and determination of young people across various fields. Special guests Sheldon Ramirez and Jahrine Avila spoke about the incredible potential of youth to innovate and lead. Hon. Gilroy Usher highlighted the crucial role of young Belizeans, saying, “ young people are the backbone of our nation’s progress”. Hon. Rodwell Ferguson also addressed the youth, saying, “your potential is limitless”. He encouraged them to dream big, work hard, and never forget that your effort and enthusiasm are what keep this country thriving. We can work together to create a Belize that reflects your talents and aspirations. The awards honored winners in thirteen categories, including Youth in Agriculture, Sports, Entrepreneurship, Environmental Protection, Leadership, and more. Each category celebrated individuals and groups who have shown excellence and dedication to community growth and national development.
Jair Hernandez, a special education student at Mary Hill Roman Catholic School in Corozal, made Belize proud this week by bringing home not one, but three gold medals from the CODICADER Special Olympics in Panama. On Monday night, the streets of Corozal Town were lined with residents eager to welcome Jair back. Among them was Garcia-Ramirez, a political aspirant and long-time resident of Corozal, who has known Jair and his family for years. She shared that his success is a testament to his strict discipline and dedication.
Thea Garcia-Ramirez
Thea Garcia-Ramirez, P.U.P. Standard Bearer, Corozal Bay
“Jair’s father used to run with him every day for, for training from the village of Xaibe up to where the Philip Goldson Highway is just to train every day with him. They were super excited. We expected him to do well, and we are proud. Corozal is proud of Jair. Three gold medals. I think it’s important because I believe in an inclusive society. I believe wholeheartedly that these children need not only our love and support, but even more so because they are differently abled and being differently abled doesn’t mean that you can’t do things just to do it in a slightly different manner and you need maybe different kinds of support.”
It’s been a month since Belize’s very own Halima Hoy left to compete in the Miss Universe 2024 Pageant. After shining on one of the world’s biggest stages, Hoy has returned home. Today, News Five’s Britney Gordon caught up with her at the airport to find out how she’s feeling now that the pageant is over.
Britney Gordon, Reporting
Today, the Philip Goldson International Airport buzzed with excitement as the rhythmic beats of the Wabagari Dance Group welcomed Miss Universe Belize 2024 back home. After a whirlwind month in Mexico, Halima Hoy is thrilled to be back. She shared her feelings about the days leading up to the big night.
Halima Hoy
Halima Hoy, Miss Universe Belize 2024
“It was like emotions building up. We had a lot of emotions and I felt sad at some point, not sad, but just more like doubting myself a little bit. And then at some point, I felt excited, just normal emotions that you go through when you’re about to experience a huge life event. But when I got on the stage, I can tell you that all of that went away. The pride of my country took over and I felt pretty comfortable on that stage. So I’m proud of that.”
Meeting new people was the highlight of Hoy’s Miss Universe experience. While most Belizeans praised her performance, there were some criticisms after the pageant. On Thursday, the Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) released an open letter, expressing concerns that Hoy’s presentation of the Deer Dance didn’t honor the ritual’s sanctity. Hoy shared her initial thoughts on the letter.
Halima Hoy
“We released sketches of the costumes that were submitted to us since late April, early May, I believe, and they all had a wonderful description of what it represents, and the sketches have been circulating since then, and we also released photos of the costume a couple, a couple weeks prior to me leaving, maybe a couple days, sorry, prior to me leaving, so I am proud to have represented something that beautiful something that is rooted in the Belizean culture and I just feel like moving forward, we do need to maybe you know, look consult or something like that, but I I am very proud of the performance I have I got a lot of positive feedback from the costume, a lot of the young women were asking me what it meant and my eyes just lit up when I was sharing the store with them and I believe that a lot of people will know that part of our tradition in Belize.”
Much like the Miss Universe team, many Belizeans wondered why SATIIM waited so long to condemn the presentation. Executive Director, Maya Ch’oc explains that the timing of the statement is not as crucial as its message.
Maya Ch’oc
Maya Ch’oc, Executive Director, SATIIM
“It’s to bring some attention and some education. I think it was to create a learning opportunity for everyone and it’s certainly not to blame anybody or to cause an upset, but it’s really to create an opportunity to learn so that we can reconnect to share with the Belizean public and with everyone that there is something about this dare dance that is sacred to us as Maya people, and it’s important for us to respect these practices, these traditions, and these values and it’s important to why we want to showcase police to ensure that it’s done in a respectful manner and that we at least seek, I wouldn’t say permission, but to have a conversation with other people, this is an idea that I have. What are your thoughts on this?”
Despite the criticism, Hoy is thankful for the chance to showcase Belize’s rich culture and advocate for climate action. She sees this as a learning experience for the entire team.
Halima Hoy
“That is a, you know, a group effort from the entire organization, but we had no mal intentions when we did it. That we had all good intentions to represent our country and represent something that is deeply rooted in our history that we all share as Belizeans.”
SATIIM acknowledges that Hoy and her team meant no harm with the presentation but maintains that better protocols should be taken when choosing to showcase sacred parts of culture. Ch’oc also encourages all members of the Mayan community to reconnect with their culture.
Maya Ch’oc
“I see this as an opportunity for us, and I call on all of us Maya people, to reconnect with our culture, our tradition. You know, I perhaps, maybe if this had been an issue that happened ten years ago, my perspective would have shifted. You know, it would have been different but I think it I would say to them is that the question is, why is this dance so valuable to us? You know, how do we respect it? You know, there has been a lot of traditions that have been lost throughout the years because of external forces, because we’ve had this disconnect between ourselves on our culture.”
Halima plans to keep championing her platform and making Belize proud throughout the rest of her reign. She also has some words of wisdom for the next Miss Universe.
Halima Hoy
“It’s not only about the glitz and the glams that you see on social media, There’s a lot of hard work that goes behind the scene. You have to be resilient, you have to be strong and confident in the woman that you are. It gets tough at times, you’re gonna doubt yourself at times, but it’s all about the comeback. How having a strong source of like, where your hope comes from. Like for me, I’m a firm believer in Jesus Christ and I feel like praying and staying grounded was really important, but the next Miss Universe Belize just has to be a woman who is sure of herself, who has great character and who’s not afraid to shine that light even in a room with a hundred and twenty-five women.”
With a little under twenty-four hours left before COP29 wraps up in Azerbaijan’s capital, negotiators are still at an impasse over a new climate finance goal to help developing countries tackle flash flooding, drought, wildfires, and other natural disasters worsened by human activity. The first draft of a potential agreement was released early Thursday morning, receiving mixed reactions from government negotiators and civil society groups. The draft, divided into two main sections, outlines proposals from both developing and developed countries. However, some key issues, including funding goals, remain unresolved.
Speaker 1
“I’m really sorry to say, but the text we now have in front of us, in our view, is imbalanced, unworkable and unacceptable.”
Speaker 2
“In the current text, some of these calls are hidden, pared back, or minimized. These shouldn’t be hidden, we showed own them and be proud of them and reinforce them. This is a big step back and it is not acceptable at this current moment of crisis.”
Speaker 3
“The current proposed text is severely lacking in ambition, but it can serve as a starting point for enhancing the mitigation action required to reach the 1.5 target. In addition, the text does not cover the full scope of issues that we have been discussing over the last few weeks and we will seek a way of reintroducing them where possible.”
Speaker 4
“So far, our development partner has not responded to our request of a figure because without a figure, the rest is really important but we need a figure as a headline to really determine whether we are making progress and the people outside of this room are expecting us to come up with that.”
Speaker 5
“Negotiations are moving far too slowly to meet the scale of the challenges we face.”
Speaker 6
“Unfortunately, the document still lacks substantive elements such as a concrete number on quantum. We hope that very soon, we will find the number which is commensurate with the needs and priorities of the developing countries.”
Doctor Kenrick Williams, the C.E.O. of the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, is currently in Baku, Azerbaijan. On Thursday, he took the stage at COP29 to highlight the devastating and irreversible effects of climate change on Small Island Developing States like Belize. He passionately called for climate justice and equity, stressing the urgent need for fair treatment and support for these vulnerable nations.
Dr. Kenrick Williams, C.E.O., Ministry of Sustainable Development
“While we gather here, the climate emergency continues to tighten its grip on vulnerable nations like Belize, continuously and consistently eroding any progress we make. Every day, our communities are experiencing and living the escalated impact of the climate emergency. Irreversible impacts unfold with each increasing fraction of a degree, magnifying the devastation while every moment of inaction exacts a toll on lives, ecosystems and livelihoods. Every climate disaster serves as a profound reminder. Adaptation investment is not a luxury nor is it a charity; rather, it is indispensable for our survival. Like other SIDS, we face unique vulnerabilities with limited capacity to adopt. Just this past Sunday, Tropical Storm Sara made landfall in Belize, bringing intense rainfall, widespread flooding, and threatening the livelihoods of our people. Coupled with the most severe wildfires this year, and Hurricane Lisa in 2023, the aggregate loss and damage stands over two hundred million dollars, or over six percent of GDP in just two years. Regrettably, this cycle of loss and damage occurs much too often. This is why we need doubling of adaptation finance and we need fast-tracking of loss and damage finance. Belize, a small nation with an overwhelming stake in this crisis, stands here, not just with words, but with the weight of our people’s future. Our position is clear: climate justice and equity must prevail.”
