Official Results of Caye Caulker Historic Referendum

Caye Caulker residents have decisively voted against the legalisation of cannabis for production and sale on the island. Out of 1,454 registered voters, 857 cast ballots in Wednesday’s referendum, representing a 58.94% turnout. Only 176 voters (24.54%) supported legalisation, while 678 (79.11%) opposed it, with three ballots rejected.

Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai officially certified the results, confirming that the majority of voters rejected the government’s proposal to create a regulated, taxable cannabis industry on the island, with a portion of the revenue intended to benefit the local community.

The referendum, the first of its kind in Belize, sparked intense debate across Caye Caulker in the weeks leading up to the vote. Proponents argued that legalisation would provide new revenue streams for education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Ilya Rosado of the Village Council, one of the leading voices in favour, expressed respect for the outcome:

“This is democracy, and the people of Caye Caulker made their voices heard. This process was a learning experience, and I will continue my duties to make Caye Caulker a better place for everyone, regardless of how they voted,” Rosado said.

Opponents of legalisation celebrated a landslide victory. They had warned of potential risks including increased drug abuse, street sales, and turf conflicts. Celina Fuentes, a key figure in the “No” campaign, said: “This is the island itself speaking. It is a resounding no. I thank every resident who came out to vote. This was a community effort for our children, for our future, and that is what we voted on.”