Another Public Consultation on 13th Amendment Set for Dangriga

The government will hold its third public consultation on the Belize Constitution (Thirteenth Amendment) Bill, 2025 on Wednesday, September 24, at the Dangriga Town Hall. The session runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The committee says the consultation is part of its mandate to encourage public participation in the legislative process under Section 69 of the Constitution. Citizens are invited to attend in person to voice their perspectives, concerns, and recommendations.

Those unable to participate directly may submit written feedback by September 30, 2025, addressed to the Clerk of the National Assembly via email at ClerkNA@bna.gov.bz, using the subject line: “Belize Constitution (Thirteenth Amendment) Bill, 2025.”

This upcoming session follows two earlier consultations, including one held in late July at the University of Belize’s Conference Center in Belmopan. That gathering drew only a small crowd but generated significant debate over the controversial bill, which the Briceño administration says is intended to address gang-related crime.

Supporters argue the measure is needed to give authorities stronger tools to combat escalating violence. But opponents worry it could grant police excessive powers, particularly regarding searches, seizures, and arrests.

Government officials used the Belmopan session to clarify that the amendment would not permit arrests without reasonable suspicion, and that detainees would have the right to a tribunal review to determine if continued custody is justified. Still, some residents remained skeptical.