Incoming CEO Chester Williams is expected to bring a strong enforcement edge to the Ministry of Transport, according to Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh. Although Williams officially assumes the post on May 1, he has already begun attending meetings and familiarising himself with the portfolio.
“His strengths will certainly come to bear,” said Zabaneh. “Especially looking at areas of enforcement, safety, the training of our traffic wardens… laws that could strengthen their presence on the road. These are things that he will be able to help tremendously to ensure we can implement them expeditiously to the benefit of the public.”
When asked about concerns regarding Williams’ leadership style, Zabaneh dismissed the idea of conflict. “I think we are going to work very well together. I know incoming CEO Chester Williams very well… we have the common objective of service to our country.”
Following a series of alarming incidents involving public buses—including accidents and even one vehicle catching fire—newly appointed Minister of Transport, Dr. Louis Zabaneh, is promising urgent action to safeguard commuters.
“This is a critical function that must be carried out very carefully,” Dr. Zabaneh said today in an interview with News 5. “We have seen in the past month alone some serious cases—accidents on the road, buses catching fire. These are of grave concern to us. It is a hazard to the public, certainly commuters on those buses, but also to other persons on the highways.”
Over the past few weeks, public concern has grown over the ageing and deteriorating bus fleet operating on Belize’s highways. Though no lives have been lost, the recent mishaps have sparked renewed calls for the Government of Belize to take old and unsafe buses off the road.
In response, Dr. Zabaneh said he has already taken steps: “It is critical and I have instructed to carry out necessary inspections of these buses.”
But the minister says addressing vehicle condition is only one part of the equation. He pointed to troubling reports about bus drivers engaging in dangerous behaviour.
“We have to look at a certification program for drivers of buses,” Dr. Zabaneh explained. “They are entrusted with the lives of people on their buses. We cannot have drivers who are reckless, who we understand in between runs, when they are waiting to go back to where they came from, that they are seen in public drinking. Or when they drive, they are seen texting while driving, racing on the road.”
The Ministry of Transport is expected to roll out a more robust enforcement plan in the coming weeks, as it seeks to restore public confidence in the nation’s bus system.
As Haiti faces a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis, Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, is calling on the global community to urgently increase support for displaced families struggling amid violence and instability.
During a recent high-level visit to Port-au-Prince, Pope met with families displaced by gang violence, many of whom have fled their homes multiple times. Over 1 million people are now displaced inside Haiti—three times more than last year—while nearly 200,000 were deported from neighbouring countries in 2024, placing immense strain on already overwhelmed services.
“This is one of the most complex and urgent crises in the world,” said Pope. “When we invest in humanitarian aid, we don’t just save lives—we build the foundations for stability and resilience.”
Pope described meeting a mother who had fled her home three times in two months, now sheltering under a tarp with her children. “These are not just numbers. These are real lives caught in a cycle of crisis.”
While in Haiti, Pope met with government officials to explore solutions for improving migration governance, expanding access to legal documentation, and strengthening reintegration efforts.
IOM is currently leading humanitarian operations at more than 50 displacement sites, providing emergency shelter, water and sanitation, protection services, and support for rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods in affected communities.
Belizeans take Easter seriously. It’s that glorious time of year when the sun is blazing, the water is inviting, and families nationwide pack up their coolers, hammocks, and good vibes to head to the hottest (and coolest) spots for a much-needed break. Whether you’re after beach vibes, jungle escapes, or cultural flavour, Belize has something for everyone.
Here are the top five Easter destinations in Belize where the only thing hotter than the weather is the fun!
1. Caye Caulker – Go Slow, Recharge Fast
This chill island takes the top spot for those who want to take Easter nice and easy. Caye Caulker is famous for its laid-back motto: “Go Slow”. But don’t let that fool you—Easter weekend brings a festive buzz to this sandy paradise.
From beach parties at The Split to paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters to indulging in fresh seafood and fruity cocktails, Caye Caulker is where you go to forget your worries and remember your flip-flops. Bonus points if you get sunburnt in the shape of a palm tree.
2. San Pedro, Ambergris Caye – Party Central on the Water
If you like your Easter sunny, salty, and full of soca, San Pedro is your jam. This is where beach meets beats. Think mega beach parties, jet skis, and endless vibes stretching from Boca del Rio to Secret Beach.
San Pedro is also a foodie haven—grab a fry jack in the morning, ceviche at lunch, and dance the calories off at night. It’s like spring break, but with better rice and beans.
3. Hopkins – Garifuna Culture Meets Coastal Cool
For a soulful seaside escape, Hopkins hits different. This southern coastal village is where culture and coastline combine to create pure Easter magic. It’s known for its welcoming community, drumming sessions, and some of the best cassava bread and hudut you’ll ever taste.
Kayak in the calm sea, bike through the village, or just kick back in a hammock under a coconut tree and listen to the rhythm of the drums. Hopkins is peace with a heartbeat.
4. Placencia – Barefoot Bliss with a Dash of Glam
Placencia is like Caye Caulker’s more sophisticated cousin—but still fun at heart. With its 16-mile peninsula of beachy perfection, Placencia offers everything from luxury resorts to laid-back cabanas.
Spend your days snorkelling, exploring local art shops, or grabbing gelato on the famous sidewalk (the narrowest street in the world, by the way). As the sun sets, hit Tipsy Tuna or Barefoot Bar for live music and tropical cocktails that might just turn into a dance-off.
5. Cayo – Jungle Adventure and River Cool-Downs
Not into beaches? No problem. Head west to Cayo, where rivers, caves, and waterfalls become your Easter playground. Tubing down the Mopan, swimming in Rio On Pools, or exploring ancient Maya temples at Xunantunich—Cayo brings the adventure and the Insta-worthy views.
Plus, Easter here is filled with local fairs, rodeos, and delicious eats like BBQ, tamales, and—if you know someone local—some next-level escabeche. It’s family fun with a wild twist.
Final Splash
No matter where you end up this Easter, remember to travel safe, stay hydrated, and leave only footprints (not your empty soda bottles). Whether you’re dancing in San Pedro, floating in Caye Caulker, or hiking in Cayo—Belize is the place to be.
So grab your beach towel, book that bus or boat, and get ready for an egg-cellent Easter getaway!
The European Commission is reportedly issuing burner phones and laptops to officials travelling to the United States, a precaution typically reserved for visits to countries like China and Russia, according to the Financial Times.
The move comes ahead of next week’s spring meetings of the World Bank and IMF in Washington, D.C., and reflects growing fears of U.S. cyber-espionage. “They are worried about the U.S. getting into the Commission systems,” one source told the FT.
While it’s not unusual for officials to use clean devices when travelling to surveillance-heavy states, extending this practice to the U.S. signals a sharp decline in trust. One EU official remarked, “The transatlantic alliance is over.”
Tensions have escalated in recent months amid aggressive policies from President Trump’s administration, including trade tariffs, controversial diplomatic behaviour, and immigration crackdowns. Several European countries have updated travel advisories for the U.S., citing detainments and visa issues, with warnings for transgender travellers and academics facing increased scrutiny at the border.
A European Commission spokesperson did not deny the distribution of secure devices but confirmed that travel guidance had been updated for several countries, citing a general rise in cybersecurity threats.
Belize is stepping up its leadership in international maritime climate negotiations. Representatives from the Belize Port Authority (BPA) and the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize (IMMARBE) recently participated in two key meetings hosted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London—the 19th Intersessional Working Group on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships (ISWG-GHG 19) and the 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83).
The Belizean delegation included BPA Chairman Lawrence Thompson, Acting Ports Commissioner Kaylon Young, Project & Research Officer Jaeda Sutherland, IMMARBE’s Technical Manager Anique Sabal, and Technical Consultant Major Lloyd Jones.
Belize is playing a leading role on behalf of Caribbean IMO Member States, ensuring the region’s interests are heard in negotiations that could reshape global shipping practices. These talks are focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships and include proposals for a global fuel intensity standard and a carbon pricing mechanism.
Supported by the Caribbean Shipping Lanes Project and the United Nations Foundation, Belize’s active engagement highlights its commitment to sustainable maritime governance and the protection of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
As global shipping moves toward net-zero emissions by 2050, Belize continues to advocate for fair and inclusive policies that reflect regional realities and protect local livelihoods.
A group of officers from Belize’s national security forces have successfully completed the Basic Medic Course 1/25, a seven-week programme designed to equip participants with critical emergency medical skills. The course ran from February 24 to April 11 and brought together members of the Belize Defence Force, the Belize Coast Guard, and the Belize Police Department.
The training began with five weeks of intensive instruction covering the fundamentals of emergency medical care, including trauma and medical patient management—from initial assessment to hospital transfer. In the final two weeks, participants were immersed in high-pressure simulations, learning to care for casualties in hostile operational environments, with an emphasis on battlefield medicine.
Upon graduation, the new medics will now shadow senior medical personnel and work under the supervision of medical officers before being cleared for full deployment in field operations. Select graduates will also have the opportunity to pursue advanced medical training locally and abroad.
Top performers of the course were:
1st Place: Pte. Henry Miguel – Services Battalion
2nd Place: LCpl. Reynaldo Choc – Special Operations Task Unit (SOTU)
3rd Place: LCpl. Giovanni Baizar – Echo Company (E Coy)
The International Democracy Union (IDU) has expressed deep concern over recent events in the Commonwealth of Dominica, warning that the country’s democratic principles, transparency, and rule of law are under serious threat following the March 19, 2025, protests.
Several individuals, including Ronald Charles, a prominent attorney and member of the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) were arrested. Charles was arrested on April 9, weeks after leading efforts to legally represent peaceful protesters detained during the demonstrations. He has since been granted bail, but his arrest has raised alarms both locally and abroad.
In a strongly worded statement, the IDU said, “The protection of fundamental freedoms and rights is paramount to the health of any democracy.” The group stressed that freedom of speech, expression, and peaceful assembly must be upheld, even in politically tense environments.
The March 19 protests stemmed from growing public frustration over economic hardship, rising unemployment, and demands for greater transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. Citizens also called for social justice and meaningful reforms, particularly in light of Dominica’s long-standing electoral reform process.
The IDU called for greater transparency and judicial independence, stating that the arrest of legal professionals like Charles may signal an overreach by police and a troubling politicization of justice. “It is essential that the judiciary operates independently, free from any political influence, to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens,” the statement read.
Kenner Gomez, the man once charged with the double murder of Lawrence and Medardo Canelo, is now a free man after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) entered a nolle prosequi in the case.
Gomez had been accused of opening fire at Flash Bar and Cool Spot in Punta Gorda in August 2021, fatally wounding the uncle and nephew duo as they were reportedly tallying the day’s sales. Aura Pacham, who was also present, sustained injuries during the attack.
Police had arrested and charged the then 27-year-old Gomez with two counts of murder and grievous harm, believing the shooting stemmed from a personal rivalry.
However, during a recent court appearance, the prosecution informed the court that it would no longer be proceeding with the case, effectively withdrawing all charges against Gomez.
The nolle prosequi, a legal declaration that halts prosecution, means Gomez cannot be tried again. Gomez was represented by attorney Leslie Hamilton.
Back in 2014, Gomez was identified as the suspect in the murder of 26-year-old Janice Vargas.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness is urging the public to stay alert following the confirmation of locally transmitted malaria cases in Belize—the first such cases in over six years.
The ministry announced today that four cases of malaria have been confirmed, three of which are due to local transmission. The cases were detected in Santa Elena Town and Cristo Rey Village in the Cayo District.
The initial case was identified on January 17, followed by additional detections on March 11 and April 5. One of the four confirmed cases has been classified as imported from Petén, Guatemala, while the remaining three are the result of local transmission.
Malaria is a febrile illness caused by parasites and transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Infected persons usually experience recurring episodes of fever, accompanied by chills and sweating, every 48 to 72 hours.
According to the ministry, the cases were identified through routine surveillance conducted at both public and private healthcare facilities. In response, the Vector Control Program, in collaboration with regional health surveillance officers, has swiftly launched multiple intervention measures, including:
House-to-house fever screening
Mosquito fogging and larviciding
Community education campaigns on symptoms and prevention
All individuals diagnosed with malaria have since received supervised medical treatment and have tested negative on follow-up.
To prevent further transmission, enhanced surveillance has been activated in high-risk zones, particularly in the Santa Elena neighbourhoods of Santa Cruz and Hillview, as well as in Cristo Rey Village. Health teams are actively testing anyone who currently has—or recently had—a fever within the past 30 days.
The ministry is encouraging residents experiencing fever and chills, particularly those who have travelled to neighbouring countries, to visit the nearest health facility for free malaria testing.
In a public advisory, the ministry reminded citizens about the importance of preventing mosquito bites, especially when travelling to malaria-endemic areas. People are encouraged to:
Use insect repellent.
Sleep under bed nets.
Clean yards and eliminate standing water around homes.
