March, 2025 - Greater Belize Media

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.

The Reason Why Mark Usher Was Shot Dead

Police Commissioner Chester Williams confirmed that Mark Usher’s death is believed to be tied to escalating tensions between two rival groups in the Faber’s Road Extension area in Belize City.

During this morning’s police briefing, Williams said, “I do believe what we are seeing in the investigation is an issue between the two groups in the Faber’s area.” Williams added that these tensions had been a problem for some time, with both groups operating in the area. He added, “It is believed that his death is as a result of that issue between the two groups.”

On Saturday night, police responded to reports of gunfire in the area. “Upon responding, police found one Mark Usher, suffering from gunshot injuries,” Williams added.

Though Usher was rushed to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) in critical condition, he later died from his injuries. Police have arrested and charged 27-year-old Andre Arthurs, a Belizean construction worker from the Belize District, in connection with Usher’s murder.

According to Williams, the police were already taking steps to address the escalating tensions. He also said that this has led to the individuals involved in the unrest to go “into hiding,” but that the Leadership Intervention Unit (LIU) was notified and is also monitoring the rising tensions.

COVID-19: Five Years Later—What We Still Don’t Know and Its Lasting Impact on Belize

Five years after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, the world has largely moved on, but the virus has left an indelible mark on societies, economies, and public health systems. While Belize and the rest of the Caribbean have made significant strides in recovery, many lingering questions about the virus and its long-term effects remain unanswered.

The Timeline

The CDC Museum’s COVID-19 Timeline chronicles key events in the pandemic’s progression:

Late 2019:

December 12: A cluster of pneumonia cases with an unknown cause emerges in Wuhan, China.
December 31: WHO is informed of these cases, all linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market.

Early 2020:

January 1: The Huanan Seafood Market is closed.
January 7: Chinese officials identify a novel coronavirus as the outbreak’s cause.
January 11: China reports the first death from the virus.
January 13: Thailand confirms the first case outside China.
January 20: The U.S. reports its first case.
January 30: WHO declares a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Mid-2020:

March 11: WHO declares COVID-19 a pandemic.
March 19: CDC updates social distancing guidelines for schools, reducing the distance to 3 feet for elementary students with universal masking.
March 25: CDC announces $300 million in funding to address disparities in COVID-19 services and plans to provide vaccinations at dialysis clinics.
March 29: A CDC study finds mRNA vaccines 90% effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection among essential workers.
March 31: CDC and NIH launch the “Say Yes! COVID Test” program, offering free at-home tests in select communities.

Late 2020:

December 14: The U.S. begins its vaccination campaign.

Early 2021:

March 29: CDC extends the eviction moratorium through June 30, 2021.

Late 2021:

December 27: CDC shortens isolation recommendations from 10 to 5 days for asymptomatic individuals, with an additional 5 days of masking.

Early 2022:

January 31: FDA grants full approval to Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for adults.
March 29: FDA authorises a second booster for adults 50 and older.
June 18: CDC recommends vaccines for children as young as 6 months.

Mid 2022:

August 31: FDA authorises updated booster shots targeting Omicron sublineages.

Mid-2023:

May 5: WHO declares COVID-19 is no longer a global health emergency.

Mid-2024:

August 22: FDA authorises updated vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech.

What We Still Don’t Know

Despite years of research, scientists are still grappling with critical uncertainties about COVID-19. One major unknown is the full extent of long-term health complications. Long COVID—a condition where individuals continue to experience symptoms months or even years after infection—remains poorly understood. Belizean doctors report cases of patients suffering from persistent fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory issues, but there are no local statistics to gauge the true impact.

Questions remain about the virus’s evolution. While the Omicron variant and its sub-lineages have been dominant in recent years, the possibility of new, more severe mutations remains a concern.

Another lingering mystery is the long-term impact of COVID-19 on children’s development, particularly in education. Belizean students faced prolonged school closures, and while online learning was implemented, disparities in internet access meant many were left behind.

COVID-19’s Ongoing Impact in Belize

On March 23, 2020, the Ministry of Health confirmed Belize’s first COVID-19 case—a 38-year-old Belizean woman from San Pedro who had recently travelled from Los Angeles, transiting through Texas. Authorities determined the case was travel-related and took immediate steps to prevent community spread, including contact tracing, dispatching health teams to San Pedro, and adjusting health services at the island’s polyclinic.

In Belize, the last reported COVID-19 statistics showed a total of 71,409 confirmed cases and 688 deaths.

While the immediate crisis has passed, COVID-19 continues to affect Belize in several ways:

The pandemic dealt a severe blow to Belize’s economy, particularly its tourism sector. In 2020, the country saw a 70% decline in tourist arrivals, leading to widespread job losses. While tourism has rebounded, businesses that shut down during the pandemic have not all reopened.

The government implemented relief measures, including unemployment benefits and business grants, but fiscal challenges persist. Inflation and the rising cost of goods—partly a consequence of global supply chain disruptions—continue to impact Belizean households.

The Social Security Board (SSB) continues to process COVID-19-related sickness benefits despite a decline in cases, according to former CEO Dr. Leroy Almendarz. He said that the board assesses all claims to ensure rightful payouts and noted a rise in claims for other serious conditions like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes. Almendarz also highlighted that the World Health Organization (WHO) defines illnesses based on prevalence and consistency rather than isolated cases.

COVID-19 exposed weaknesses in Belize’s healthcare infrastructure, from shortages of medical personnel to limited ICU capacity. While the system has improved, doctors and nurses who worked on the frontlines report burnout and ongoing staffing shortages. Additionally, non-COVID-related medical conditions saw delays in treatment, and many Belizeans are still catching up on critical healthcare needs.

Belize achieved significant vaccination coverage, but vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge. Misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccines continues to circulate, contributing to scepticism about booster shots and other immunisation programs.