2025-03-11 - Channel 5 Belize

Mother of Five Charged with Cyberbullying Commissioner of Police Chester Williams

A mother of five, Nichole Gilda McDonald, was granted bail today after being charged under the Cyber Crime Act for allegedly spreading a false statement about Commissioner of Police Chester Williams. McDonald, 37, was detained since Friday and spent four nights in custody before appearing in court this morning without legal representation.

McDonald, a matron at the Youth Cadet Corps and resident of Antelope Street, Belize City, is accused of using a computer system to post a false statement on March 5th, which allegedly intended to harm Commissioner Williams.

In court, McDonald pleaded not guilty and clarified that she was commenting on a statement made by her political party leader. McDonald argued that she had no intention to cause harm, stating she was simply reacting to events in Cayo.

The magistrate informed McDonald of the potential penalties for the offence, including a fine of up to $10,000 or a prison sentence of up to five years. McDonald further explained that she and Commissioner Williams were Facebook friends, and her post was in response to a message from her party leader. However, the magistrate advised her to reserve her defence for the trial.

McDonald, who is currently grieving the loss of two of her children’s fathers, expressed distress over her situation. The prosecutor did not object to her bail, which was set at $1,000 with one surety of the same amount. As conditions of her bail, McDonald is required to stay away from Commissioner Williams and his family, refrain from further legal trouble, and avoid using Facebook.

McDonald is scheduled to return to court on May 14th, 2025.

Albert Ramdin Elected OAS Secretary General for 2025-2030 Term

The Organization of American States (OAS) has elected Suriname’s Foreign Minister, Albert Ramdin, as its new Secretary General for the 2025-2030 period. Ramdin, who has served as Suriname’s top diplomat since 2020, was chosen by acclamation during the OAS General Assembly in Washington on Monday. He succeeds Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro, becoming the first Caribbean leader to hold the position.

“Let’s join hands and mobilise our capabilities,” he said. “I hope you’re on the same path with me, to take things forwards, not backwards, united, not divided.

Ramdin’s tenure includes a wealth of diplomatic experience, having previously served two terms as the OAS’s Assistant Secretary General from 2005 to 2015. In his address to the Assembly, Ramdin stressed the need for greater regional unity, sustainable development, and action to combat climate change—issues particularly pressing for Caribbean nations vulnerable to escalating natural disasters and mounting debt.

CARICOM congratulated Ramdin on his election, commending his leadership. Similarly, the Government of Belize extended warm congratulations to Ramdin, expressing eagerness to collaborate on advancing regional cooperation and development across the Americas. Belize wished him success in his efforts to foster unity and prosperity throughout the region during his tenure.

OAS Electoral Mission Engages Belizean Leaders Ahead of General Elections

The Electoral Observation Mission of the Organization of American States, led by senior OAS official Maricarmen Plata, has been engaging with key political figures ahead of Belize’s general elections.

Plata and her team met with Prime Minister and People’s United Party (PUP) leader John Briceño to hear his perspectives on the electoral process. The mission also held discussions with political leaders of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Moses Barrow and Tracy Panton, separately. The aim was to gain insight into their views on the upcoming elections.

This marks the fourth time the OAS will deploy an Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) to Belize for a general election, with a team of 12 observers from seven countries. Their focus will be on electoral organisation and technology, political-electoral financing, and electoral justice.

Officials also met with “representatives of the Belize PEACE Movement and Jeremy Enriquez, Belize Chamber of Commerce, the NGO Senator Janelle Chanona, and Elma Kay of the Belize Network of NGOs to hear their perspectives on the general elections.”

The mission is financially supported by Brazil, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Italy, Korea, the Netherlands, and Panama.

Mother Questions Hospital’s Care After Son’s Mysterious Death Following Fall

The body of 33-year-old Elton Rhaburn was discovered near the Bel China Bridge on Saturday morning. His mother described him as a quiet and loving son, stating, “He was the quietest of my three sons, always so loving toward me.” She added that Rhaburn was about to finish his studies at the University of Belize.

Rhaburn’s mother told News 5 that he had fallen from his second-floor veranda the previous evening. “The way how he fell, I know that it wasn’t that he threw himself,” she said.

Rhaburn visited the hospital following the fall and was complaining of a sharp pain in the back of his head. His mother said that during his hospital visit, he became visibly agitated. She requested that the medical staff restrain him by strapping him down while being treated. Despite his condition, Rhaburn insisted on leaving. He eventually removed his IV drip and walked out of the hospital.

“Everybody just came in and looking that he’s walking out and said they can’t do anything,” his mother said.

The following morning, Rhaburn’s body was found near the Bel China Bridge around 8:30 a.m. Police later contacted his mother to identify the body. “The police officer didn’t know my son; they picked him up as a John Doe,” she said.

KHMH CEO Chandra Nisbet Cansino said she was not aware of Rhaburn’s case. She told reporters, “We do have patients that come in and self-discharge—that’s within their right as human beings and as patients to do that.” Cansino added, “I would assume that’s what happened in this case, but I don’t have any details on that particular case.”

Rhaburn’s mother said that the hospital did not do enough for her son. “They hurt me very bad. KHMH hurt me very bad, they took away my son.” She explained that the medical personnel could have done more of her son; she added, “The medical team saw his elevated blood pressure and still didn’t give him the necessary medication. They ignored my request to restrain him. If they had done their part, I might still have my son today.”

GOB Issues Directive on Use of Official Vehicles for General Elections

With the country heading to the polls tomorrow, the Government of Belize (GOB) has issued strict guidelines on the use of official vehicles during the general elections. A memorandum from the Assets and Utilities Management Unit of the Ministry of Finance outlines regulations to ensure compliance with government policies.

The directive, addressed to chief executive officers, heads of departments, and finance officers, emphasises that government vehicles must not be used for unauthorised election-related activities. Specifically, the memo states:

Official Identification—Vehicles designated for election duties must display a sign on the dashboard, clearly identifying them as “Official.”

Restricted Use—Government vehicles must remain parked unless used in an official capacity by public officers carrying out election-related duties.

Adherence to Policies—All election-related vehicle usage must comply with the Government of Belize Vehicle Policy.

No Voter Transportation—GOB vehicles must not be used to transport voters to or from polling stations.

The memo, signed by Ashton Longsworth, the Financial Secretary, urges government officials to adhere to these regulations, reinforcing the commitment to transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

RSF Calls for Probe Into Police Assault on Journalist

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is urging Belizean authorities to conduct an independent and transparent investigation into an alleged assault on journalist Louis “Ljay” Wade by police officers.

As we have reported, the PlusTV reporter claims he was assaulted by police while filming at Guanacaste Park in Belmopan, where two men had drowned. Wade says he waited until officers left before recording from a distance. However, after the bodies were removed, police allegedly pinned him against a gate, seized his phone multiple times, and demanded he delete the footage or face obstruction charges.

Wade, initially hesitant to report the incident, later filed a complaint. He believes officers were trying to prevent him from exposing their lack of proper equipment for handling the bodies.

RSF North American Bureau Executive Director Clayton Weimers also expressed concern over the incident. “It’s deeply concerning any time a police officer is violent or aggressive towards members of the media who are simply trying to do their jobs. The police and the press both serve the public. Belize has strong legal protections for the press, and we certainly expect better. And while the announcement of an investigation into the matter is promising, this incident suggests the police department needs to implement stronger guidelines to protect media workers from facing similar aggression. RSF hopes to see clarifications of the police’s policies governing officers’ interactions with journalists and, if necessary, additional training.”

Belize is currently ranked 54th on RSF’s 2024 World Press Freedom Index.

ComPol Williams says Joseph Garcia Was Innocent

A deadly shooting in Belize City led to a tragic crash at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH), according to Police Commissioner Chester Williams.

Reports indicate that the driver, Joseph Garcia, who had been shot, lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the KHMH’s front entrance while trying to get medical help. The crash caused major damage to the hospital and injured an on-duty security guard.

The driver and passengers were rushed to the emergency ward, but one person did not survive.

Commissioner Williams explained that the victims—Ronlee Petillo, Garcia, and Shamar Faber—were ambushed near the Haulover Bridge as they entered Belize City. Their vehicle was being followed by two others, one of which overtook them and opened fire.

Garcia died from his injuries, while one of the passengers is in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit. Petillo was grazed by a bullet on the back of his head and was shot in the hand, but he is stable and in good spirits.

Williams told reporters that Garcia was an innocent victim from Dangriga.

Belize City Council Addresses Incident Involving Two Employees

The Belize City Council has acknowledged an incident involving two of its employees that took place over the weekend while both individuals were off duty.

Travis Flowers, 45, was arrested on Sunday for allegedly shooting his colleague, 44-year-old Calvin Cumberbatch, during a confrontation on Orange Street. Flowers, a City Council enforcement officer, has been charged with attempted murder, use of deadly means of harm, and dangerous harm. Cumberbatch, a transport evaluator for the Belize City Council, was taken to KHMH for treatment.

In a statement issued, the Council confirmed that the matter involves two longstanding employees, each with over 15 years of service. While the incident occurred outside of working hours, the Council says it recognizes the seriousness of the situation.

The statement added, “Given that this is now a matter before the courts, the Council will allow the legal process to take its course and will not be making any further comment at this time.”

First Time Voting? Here are some tips:

On Wednesday, thousands of Belizeans will head to the polls to cast their votes. With 90 candidates competing for 31 seats, the results will shape the country’s leadership for the next five years.

If you’re a first-time voter, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll guide you through the voting process, detailing what you should and shouldn’t do at the polls. With the assistance of Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai, we’ll take you step by step from the proper way to dip your finger in indelible ink to the consequences of taking a picture of your ballot.

Voter Registration and Identification

More than 204,000 people are eligible to vote on March 12th, but eligibility depends on registration before the January 10th, 2025 cutoff date. If you did not register before that date, you are not eligible to vote in this election.

If you haven’t collected your voter identification card yet, it’s crucial to visit your local registration office and pick it up before Election Day. While having your ID card will speed up the voting process, you can still vote without it.

To find your assigned polling station, visit the Elections and Boundaries Department website and use the “Voter Lookup” feature. By entering your name and date of birth, you can confirm your polling location from a list of stations spread across the country.

What to Expect at the Polling Station

Polls open at 7:00 a.m. sharp and close at 6:00 p.m. It’s advised to arrive early to avoid long lines. As long as you are in line by 6:00 p.m., you will be allowed to vote.

When you arrive, look for your polling station based on your surname, as they are organised alphabetically. Election officers will be on hand to guide you if needed. Your name will be called out by a poll clerk, and once verified, you will be asked to dip your right index finger into the indelible ink—up to the first joint. This step helps ensure that no one votes more than once.

Once your finger is inked, the presiding officer will initial your ballot paper before handing it to you. Go to the voting booth, use the provided pencil to mark your “X” beside your chosen candidate, fold the ballot to keep your vote secret while showing the presiding officer’s signature, and place it in the ballot box.

Mistakes and Rejected Ballots

If you make a mistake on your ballot, don’t panic. You can inform the presiding officer without disclosing your vote. Your spoilt ballot will be cancelled and retained, and you will be given a new one to mark correctly.

However, there are several ways your ballot can be rejected. These include:

Marking the ballot for more candidates than the number of available seats.
Failing to mark your ballot at all.
Writing your name or any identifying marks on the ballot.
Using a ballot without the presiding officer’s initials.

Rejected ballots are not counted, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure your vote is valid.

Taking Photos and Legal Consequences

In today’s social media-driven world, it may be tempting to snap a photo of your ballot as proof of voting or to show support for a candidate. However, taking pictures of your ballot is strictly prohibited and considered a criminal offence.

If caught photographing your ballot, law enforcement will confiscate your device, and you may face a fine of up to $500 or even jail time. Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai warns that your vote is private and must remain secret, so refrain from taking selfies or capturing any part of the voting process.

Voting by Proxy and Final Reminders

Not everyone is eligible to vote by proxy. Only members of essential services, including police officers, defence force members, election workers, Coast Guard personnel, and those assisting election officers, can appoint a proxy to vote on their behalf. The deadline for submitting proxy applications is 5:00 p.m. on March 5th.

Each person can only be a proxy for one other registered voter, and proper forms must be completed to authorise a proxy. The Elections and Boundaries Department prepares proxy registers to maintain transparency and order on Election Day.

Decision 2025: Show Out or Blowout

Channel 5 Belize is gearing up for comprehensive coverage of Belize’s general elections on March 12, 2025, with the theme “Decision 2025: Show Out or Blowout.” The programming will offer pre-election features, voter perspectives, expert commentary, and live updates during Election Day. Viewers can expect in-depth analysis of key issues like the economy, governance, and national security, as well as real-time election results and post-election breakdowns. Channel 5 promises to deliver the most trusted and engaging election coverage. Join us on Facebook and YouTube. Coverage begins at 6 a.m.

Rafael Casares Killed in Retaliation for Mark Usher’s Murder, Police Confirm

Rafael Caseres was murdered on Sunday afternoon, shortly after midday, in the Arlington Drive area of Belize City. Caseres was found inside his home with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.

Police Commissioner Chester Williams told reporters this morning, “It is our belief that the shooting death of Caseres is a direct retaliation for the death of Mark Usher.”

Williams confirmed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with Caseres’ murder and is expected to undergo an identification parade. He added, “It is our hope that he will be identified and will be charged for the murder of Caseres, hopefully by the end of the week.”

Williams said that following Usher’s murder, police “detained all the Caseres brothers but didn’t go for Rafael.” He said the reason why police did not go for him is because Rafael had not “been in the loop” and was being “a good law-abiding citizen” that was working.

Williams called Caseres’ death “painful for everybody; he was certainly living well, living with his family. Not bothering anybody, and when you venture to kill somebody innocent just because you couldn’t get the ones you want, that is troubling.”

Williams said that although the Caseres brothers were picked up after Usher’s murder, police arrested and charged Andre Arthurs, 27, for the murder of Usher. Arthurs was “an affiliate of the Caseres brothers,” Williams said.

Williams said that this weekend’s killing has activated police mobilisation to the area to bring justice to Rafael’s death.