BTL Says Speednet Deal “Still Under Review”

Belize Telemedia Limited issued two statements on Tuesday after a protest outside its St Thomas Street headquarters in Belize City escalated into disorder. At the frontlines of the protest were members of the Opposition and union members against the proposed acquisition of Speednet.

In its first statement, BTL condemned what it described as an “unlawful trespass” by protesters who entered the compound and resisted police efforts to remove them. The company said the actions “created an unsafe environment for BTL’s employees, visitors, customers and the trespassers themselves.”

BTL rejected claims that its board was meeting to approve the Speednet deal, stating directors were discussing “human resources-related issues, including the severance decision of the CCJ of November 5, 2025, which will have a positive impact on our former and present employees.”

In a later and more detailed statement, BTL sought to address public concern over the Speednet deal. “No final decision has been made, and the matter remains under review through the appropriate legal and regulatory processes.” The company said the proposed transaction is being assessed “in the national interest” to improve infrastructure, expand digital access and deliver faster, more reliable internet.

BTL said it is still consulting unions, the Opposition, regulators and other stakeholders, and it is operating “fully within the law,” including ongoing engagement with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). “These discussions remain ongoing and are part of BTL’s commitment to transparency and responsible decision-making,” BTL added.

It added that any outcome would be guided by regulatory requirements and “the best interests of Belizeans.”

BTL also reminded the public of its national contribution record, pointing to more than $3 million invested in social-impact initiatives, over 150 secondary school scholarships awarded, free internet access provided to dozens of non-profit organisations, and more than $17 million invested in mobile and fibre networks over the past five years.