Union Demands Lizarraga’s Exit Amid BTL Trust Fallout

Pressure is mounting inside Belize Telemedia Limited, where former workers are openly challenging the leadership at the state‑owned company. The Belize Communications Workers for Justice are now calling for the resignation of BTL Chairman Markhelm Lizarraga, saying trust, transparency, and accountability have broken down under his watch. Their demand comes as concerns grow over BTL’s refusal to fully honor a Caribbean Court of Justice ruling, one that clearly states severance is separate from pension and must be paid to all eligible employees. Add to that what the union calls a glaring conflict of interest in the proposed acquisition of Speednet, and the pressure on Lizarraga is only intensifying. Here’s the BCWJ making its case for why the chairman should step aside.

 

Michael Augustus, Past President, BCWU

“When I was President of BCWU, he had a meeting in our office against then the United Democratic Party and its government. And was telling us that all these same things that we are demanding, including severance, was due to us. [you need to get it]. Yes it was good. And now he is in the place where he can make it happen and is telling us crap that there are people who are qualified. What makes him be the one to determine who are qualified for the severance. So saying that nicely, I think conflict of interest. He need to.”

 

Reporter

“Are you guys calling for his resignation?

 

Michael Augustus

“Oh, long time! He should have done that before he started.”