The Port of Belize is set to receive a major upgrade. Today, Prime Minister John Briceñoconfirmed that the Port of Belize will undergo a major transformation into a world-class cruise and cargo facility by the end of his government’s next term if re-elected. This ambitious plan has already received backing from the Cabinet, he says, and the work on the master plan is already underway, despite setbacks from previous attempts.
“The Cabinet has already agreed. I presented a paper to the Cabinet several months ago on what could be the different options,” Briceñosaid.
He said that the port will be set to handle both cruise ships and container ships. However, the new development raises questions about the future of Stake Bank.
When asked if this means Stake Bank is no longer viable, Briceñoresponded, “We all knew that Stake Bank was a short- to medium-term investment. The berthing facilities cannot take the big ships. These cruise ships want to berth on land. The tendering is a big issue.”
He added that Stake Bank was always meant to be a temporary fix, and the country needs to build a nearshore facility to meet long-term needs.
While the government is pushing forward with its plan, there have been a number of expressions of interest from major investors. However, Briceñosaid that the government will not proceed until a clear plan and strategic investors are identified.
Filly, a female jaguar from Belize, is leaving behind the lush jungles of Belize for a new life in the United States as part of a long-standing conservation effort. On Monday, the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Centre announced that Filly will be transferred to the Milwaukee County Zoo in Wisconsin.
Dr. Celso Poot, Director of the zoo, stated, “Our program has transformed from just removing the cats from the wild and keeping them at the zoo to rehabilitating them and releasing those that can be released back into the wild with GPS collars so that we can track their movement.”
Poot added that some jaguars, like Filly, can’t be released due to injuries or behaviour that would cause them to “return to be conflict cats.” These cats are then considered for breeding programs, like the Jaguar Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is a global initiative to ensure the genetic diversity and sustainability of jaguars in captivity.
Filly will join another Belizean jaguar, Franky, at the Milwaukee Zoo. Franky, who is a grandson of a previous Belizean jaguar named Pat the Great Cat, is in need of a mate. “Franky and Filly will be put together, and hopefully we can get some litters from them,” Poot added.
Katie Kuhn, Assistant Curator of Large Mammals at the Milwaukee County Zoo, said that the plan for jaguars is focused on maintaining genetic diversity in the North American population. She said, “Genetic diversity is important because otherwise you get the effects of what inbreeding would look like,” such as health issues, diseases, and physical deformities.
According to Kuhn, Filly won’t be viewable to the public right away as the transition will be gradual even when meeting Franky. “She is going to be out…smooth and seamless…it will be at her pace.”
John Briceño, the fifth Prime Minister of Belize, is preparing for what he says will likely be his final election. Today, Briceño told reporters, “If you were to ask me today, I would tell you that probably, quite likely it is going to be my last election. At least that is my plan, my hope, and even within my family.” He pointed out the importance of managing both the People’s United Party (PUP) and the government with a firm hand.
He said he intends to finish his term, barring any unforeseen changes. “I don’t want to be in a position where people say, Oh, he di lef, mek we start plan and connive and whatever. I find that unacceptable,” Briceño said. “I have to continue to manage the party and the government the way that I have done with a firm hand, and I have to show that I have full command of the party and the government and the ministers,” he added.
When asked about what will happen with the succession of the leadership to avoid the chaos that is happening within the United Democratic Party, Briceño stated he is determined not to leave a leadership vacuum in the PUP. “What has happened to the UDP is they had a very small bench after Dean Barrow, who could have taken over the UDP,” he said, adding, “I do believe the PUP is in a much better position. We have a deep bench. From Francis Fonseca to Cordel Hyde, Anthony Mahler, and Kareem Musa.”
When News 5 asked if that is his top four, he said, “I am just giving names right now.”
Earlier this week, the Belize Police Department held a special awards ceremony in Belmopan to recognise senior officers for their outstanding service in the Western Region. The event, attended by the Commissioner of Police Chester Williams and Western Regional Commander Suzette Anderson, celebrated officers who have gone above and beyond in their duties.
The police department praised the officers for their dedication, stating, “Without them, it won’t be an easy task.” They pointed out the importance of motivating the team to continue striving for excellence.
The awardees included Deputy Regional Commander Crispin Castillo, Officer Commanding Benque Viejo Formation Jesus Palma, and Officer Commanding Belmopan Formation Martha Rhys. Additionally, recognition was given for excellence in various areas, such as community policing, traffic enforcement, and successful operations. Notable awards were also presented to San Ignacio, Belmopan, and Roaring Creek police formations.
Special recognition was also given to the teams behind the Special Patrol, Mobile Interdiction, and K9 Units, as well as Alfredo Chavarria, the driver for the Regional Commander.
The National Women’s Commission (NWC) is calling for nominations for its Outstanding Women’s Award, which will be presented in March 2025. This prestigious honour celebrates individuals or organisations that have made significant contributions to women’s human rights or humanitarian efforts. Eligible nominees should have a proven track record of service to their community, embodying compassion, impartiality, and a commitment to improving the lives of women and girls.
The award covers several key areas, including women’s roles in the economy, education, health, and decision-making, as well as efforts to combat violence against women and promote gender equality. Nominees should demonstrate a passion for positive change, a strong dedication to their community, and a focus on empowering women and girls.
To be considered, nominations must be submitted by March 3, 2025, and include a brief bio, supporting documents, and a high-resolution photo. The nomination process is thorough, with a review committee evaluating each submission. Awardees will be notified at least two weeks before the ceremony.
Submissions can be sent to programme.officer.nwc@humandev.gov.bz, and copy (cc) programme.officer2@humandev.gov.bz.
Starting today, 35 social workers and counsellors in Belize are undergoing specialised training on trauma-informed care. The four-day workshop is organised by the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs in collaboration with the U.S.-based NGO Peaceful Households and the Ixchel Caribe Foundation in Belize City.
The training will focus on understanding, recognising, and responding to the effects of trauma on individuals and help professionals provide more empathetic and effective support. “By adopting these practices, social work and counselling professionals are better equipped to provide empathetic, effective, and holistic support to clients, promoting resilience and recovery,” a joint statement read.
Kathy Orr, an expert in trauma-informed practices, is leading the sessions. A follow-up session is scheduled for January 24 at the New Beginnings Youth Development Centre, with 12 participants continuing their education.
As crowds gathered for Donald Trump’s inauguration, an unexpected scene started to unfold outside the Capital One Arena. Expensive items were discarded on the sidewalks by attendees who struggled to meet the venue’s strict security requirements.
Due to cold weather, Trump’s inauguration was moved indoors, and many attendees were caught off guard by the arena’s no-bag policy, which prohibited backpacks, purses, and large bags. Many were forced to comply and had no choice but to abandon their belongings—including Louis Vuitton bags, cameras, and even blankets—on the street.
Video footage captured individuals rummaging through the pile of discarded items. One local resident found a bag containing car keys and was able to contact its owner to return them.
“We sacrificed a lot coming here… the weather, the traffic, the expensive hotel. Everything,” said Saga Conroy from California, who was upset over the loss of her belongings. “They’re stealing our things.”
President Donald Trump wasted no time implementing his agenda upon returning to office. The 47th President has officially put pen to paper on a series of executive orders to overhaul the U.S. On his first day in office, Trump made major moves on key issues like immigration, climate policy, and government workforce management.
Pardons for Capitol Rioters
Trump kicked off the day by issuing pardons for nearly all individuals charged in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. That day, a mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to prevent Congress from certifying Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election. Encouraged by Trump’s false claims of a stolen election, the rioters sought to disrupt the certification process. The incident resulted in five deaths, including a police officer, and over 170 injuries, with significant damage to the Capitol building. “With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense,” Trump said during his inaugural address.
Tougher Immigration Policies, Border Wall Construction Resumes
Trump took decisive action on border security, fulfilling his long-standing promises for tougher immigration enforcement. Among the key orders, he declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, designated criminal cartels as terrorist organisations, and resumed construction of the border wall. Additionally, Trump ended the federal “catch-and-release” program and reinstated the controversial ‘remain in Mexico’ policy. Trump also declared his executive order to end birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants.
Trump Pulls U.S. Out of Paris Agreement Again
On the economic front, Trump signed an order directing federal agencies to address the “cost-of-living crisis” and implemented a 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign assistance programs. The president also reaffirmed his “America First” foreign policy.
Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, an action he had previously taken during his first term. This comes after the hottest year ever recorded, with major wildfires still raging in Los Angeles and recent hurricanes causing damage from Florida to North Carolina. “I’m immediately withdrawing from the unfair, one-sided Paris climate accord rip-off,” Trump said.
Trump Declares There’s Only Two Biological Sexes
Trump also signed executive orders proclaiming that there are only two biological sexes. The gender order halted diversity programs, including preventing taxpayer funds from being used for gender-transition health care and mandates. Trump issued a controversial order recognising only two sexes, male and female, restricting gender identity to those assigned at birth. The order directs federal agencies to cease promoting gender transition policies. This move is expected to face legal challenges.
Trump Extends Deadline for Sale of TikTok
As he promised Sunday, President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive action that delays enforcement of the TikTok ban for 75 days.Trump extended the deadline for TikTok’s parent company to sell the app or face a ban in the U.S. This move, aimed at addressing national security concerns, provides a temporary reprieve for TikTok users. Trump told reporters Monday that he changed his mind on TikTok because he “got to use it.” He added, “And remember, TikTok is largely about kids, young kids.”
Withdrawal from the World Health Organization
He also withdrew the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing unfair financial demands placed on the country. The U.S. is the largest contributor to the World Health Organization (WHO), funding around 18% of its budget, which is crucial for global health efforts. In 2022, the U.S. donated $15.8 billion to global health, with a significant portion directed toward WHO programs like HIV, tuberculosis, and disease prevention. However, Trump claimed that the WHO “ripped off” the U.S. Experts warn that losing U.S. support could severely impact key global health initiatives, including efforts to combat polio, improve maternal and child health, and track new viral threats, potentially weakening the world’s ability to respond to future pandemics.
The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday said it “regrets” President Trump’s move to withdraw from the global health authority, saying it hopes the U.S. will reconsider the decision. This was not the first time Trump has moved to withdraw from the WHO, having previously attempted to do the same in 2020.
Renaming U.S. Landmarks
The president signed an executive order to rename U.S. landmarks, including the Gulf of Mexico, which he proposed to call the “Gulf of America,” as part of his effort to “honour American greatness.” He also doubled down on his pre-inauguration threat to reimpose U.S. control over the Panama canal. Trump claimed that Panama had “broken” a promise to remain neutral, alleging that “China is operating the Panama Canal.”
But as powerful as the US president is, can Trump really take over the Panama Canal and rename the Gulf of Mexico? And what would that involve?
Trump doesn’t have the authority to change the name globally, and other countries aren’t required to go along with this idea. Mexico, for example, rejected the idea a few weeks back, with President Claudia Sheinbaum humorously suggesting renaming North America as “Mexican America.” While the new name could be used in the U.S., it’s unlikely to be accepted internationally without an agreement between both nations. Meanwhile, Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino said he rejected Trump’s claims that “China is operating the Panama Canal” in their “entirety,” adding there is “no presence of any nation in the world that interferes with our administration.”
What’s Next for Trump’s Executive Orders?
So what happens now with all of Trump’s signed executive orders? The speed and impact of executive orders depend on how straightforward they are and the work needed to carry them out. Simple orders, like Trump’s decision to pardon January 6 rioters, can be quickly implemented. However, more complicated ones, like tackling the cost-of-living crisis, may take longer to put into action. Executive orders can also be undone by future presidents, and they can be challenged in court if someone believes the president is overstepping his legal powers. For example, Trump reversed many of Obama’s policies, and Biden has done the same with Trump’s orders.
The High Court officially opened for the 2025 legal year with a traditional ceremony, beginning with a church service at the Holy Redeemer Cathedral. Chief Justice Louise Blenman inspected the ceremonial guard of honour and delivered an address celebrating the judiciary’s progress.
Blenman spoke on the achievements from 2024, such as the reduction of case backlogs and the introduction of criminal mediation. She said, “We no longer have cases as old as fourteen years…their matters being sent down for trial.”
New initiatives include a professional administrative plan for trained staff and digitalising court processes, with a focus on artificial intelligence.
While progress was acknowledged, Blenman pointed out the ongoing challenge of producing transcripts for Court of Appeal cases, promising improvements with a new speech-to-text system.
The Attorney General, Anthony Sylvestre, discussed upcoming reforms, including a new Bail Act. The ceremony also marked the completion of renovations to the historic court building, which was damaged by Hurricane Lisa in 2022.
President of the Bar Association, William Lindo, commended the judiciary’s achievements over the past year.
Belize has officially assumed the chairmanship of CARIFORUM, the Caribbean Forum of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States, for the first half of 2025. Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr. Osmond Martinez, has assumed the role of Chair of the regional organisation. An official statement said that this leadership shift represents Belize’s growing influence in regional trade and integration efforts.
In preparation for its new leadership role, Belize hosted a CARIFORUM delegation this past week. The delegation, led by Director General Alexis Downes-Amsterdam, engaged in a series of discussions with Belizean officials. The talks focused on several key areas, including policy dialogue, development cooperation, and ongoing trade agreements with the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK).
During these discussions, Minister Martinez pointed out the need to rebrand CARIFORUM to better address the current challenges facing member states. He stressed that the organisation must prioritise initiatives that will bring tangible benefits to both individual countries and the region as a whole.
CARIFORUM is an organisation that brings together Caribbean nations to promote economic, social, and cultural cooperation. It aims to boost regional development through collaboration on important issues such as trade, education, and climate change. The group is part of a broader coalition, the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) group, which includes countries from three different continents working together to improve their global standing and development outcomes.
