News 5 2025: The Stories That Shaped Belize

2025 was a year Belize will not soon forget. A year of heartbreak and hope, of crime and courage, of political shifts, public outrage, cultural pride, and national reflection. From shocking murders and courtroom drama to historic appointments, protests, discoveries, and defining government decisions these were the stories that shaped Belize in 2025.

January – A Troubling Start

The year opened with tragedy and controversy. Belizeans were shaken by the double murder of Adelita and Felix, a case that set a somber tone for the months ahead. At the same time, government and public institutions dominated headlines from the opening of a new NHI clinic in Belama, to political infighting over who truly leads the UDP.

January also brought change and debate: the DVU was renamed, Police Constable Reid was dismissed, and Belizeans got their first look at newly designed banknotes sparking strong public reaction over national symbols and identity.

February – Protest, Politics, and Public Safety

Violence again made headlines with the Baptist murder, while the drowning of Orellano highlighted ongoing safety concerns. Teachers took to the streets as the BNTU protested for better conditions, while political parties mobilized including the PUP convention and discussions around a national health manifesto.

February also exposed troubling trends: deadly incidents at Royal Kahal, reports of car scams affecting Belizeans, and renewed focus on party symbols and identity ahead of elections.

March – Decisions That Defined the Nation

March was one of the most consequential months of the year. The swearing-in of Prime Minister John Briceño for a second term confirmed political continuity, even as consumer confidence fell and the cost of living continued to rise.

Tragedy struck with a bus overturning, while national pride was on display during La Ruta Maya and renewed interest in Placencia’s beaches. The month also saw Shyne resign from leadership, discussions on major CCJ decisions, cyberbullying charges involving the Commissioner of Police, and the nation bidding farewell to cultural icon Aurelio Martinez.

April – Shocks, Scandals, and Security Concerns

April brought controversy on multiple fronts. Chester Williams’ replacement made waves, while global politics reached Belize through discussions on Trump-era tariffs. A disturbing case of horse chopping sparked public outrage, and Belize confirmed its first measles case in 34 years raising alarm among health officials.

The month also featured allegations against public figures, a rare plane hijacking incident, and the arrest of a sitting area representative, reminding Belizeans that no one was beyond scrutiny.

May – Law, Order, and Media Change

In May, the courts weighed heavily on national affairs with a High Court ruling affecting the UDP. The government implemented a State of Emergency as crime-fighting intensified, prompting protests and demonstrations.

Environmental and development concerns surfaced at Boots Beach Front, while the media landscape evolved with the introduction of a new newsroom signaling change in how Belizeans receive their news.

June – Triumph Amid Crisis

June delivered one of the year’s most inspiring stories: a burn victim achieving a medical degree, proving resilience in the face of adversity. But darker stories remained including the indictment of a public figure for rape and growing concern over Fusarium disease affecting agriculture.

The country also celebrated national representation at Miss Universe Belize, while authorities in San Pedro intensified efforts to combat the growing sargassum crisis.

July – History, Protest, and Progress

July was marked by both horror and history. The murders of Evadnie and Luke stunned the nation, while Belize celebrated a major archaeological discovery at Caracol.

The country appointed its first female military commander, unions rallied in the streets, and constitutional changes resurfaced with debates around the 13th Amendment. Issues like rodent infestations, the rollout of a national ID, and high-profile public figures like Rima Ray kept public attention firmly fixed.

August – Fear, Technology, and the Unexpected

August was one of the most intense months of the year. The Meighan murder, multiple drownings, and a violent home invasion kept communities on edge. Unusual environmental stories from devil fish sightings to cattle ranching challenges added to the headlines.

The month also revealed how technology is reshaping society, with discussions around AI relationships, alongside serious public health concerns like a confirmed human screwworm case and the shocking kidnapping of Budna.

September – Answers and Accountability

September focused on timelines, investigations, and accountability. An infant’s death sparked calls for justice, while Ellis Meighan was returned to Belize. The Budna case unfolded in greater detail, keeping the nation riveted.

Infrastructure and regional politics took center stage with discussions on the Tren Maya project, new taxes, and Carnival celebrations that reminded Belizeans of their cultural resilience.

October – Power, Policy, and Public Anger

October delivered some of the year’s most disturbing revelations. The murder of Big Tom, the discovery of a body in a drum, and a devastating fire in San Lazaro shocked the nation.

Policy decisions also dominated headlines including Caye Caulker’s decision on cannabis, government plans to acquire Fortis, and controversy surrounding the Hangar area, where questions of privatization versus public access ignited fierce debate.

November – Reflection and Reckoning

November was a month of reflection and reckoning. Political stability was questioned following multiple cabinet reshuffles, including the resignation of high-ranking officials. Belize City endured its longest power outage in years, while gun violence again surfaced with a targeted shooting near the Free Zone.

Legal disputes, road safety statistics, and territorial tensions involving Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras reached international courts. The nation also celebrated a historic milestone as Phillip Wright became the first Belizean Archbishop of the West Indies.

Goodbye 2025, Hello 2026

Through every challenge and triumph, one thing remained constant in 2025 the resilience of the Belizean people. A nation tested by violence, politics, and uncertainty, yet strengthened by unity, culture, and an unyielding demand for accountability.

As we look ahead, the stories of 2025 remind us not only of where we have been but of the Belize we continue to build together.