Belize’s Transit Overhaul Gains Momentum with Tighter Legal Framework

Belize’s plan to overhaul its aging public transportation system accelerates with the launch of the National Bus Company, a unified network designed to replace decades of fragmented service and commuter frustration. As the new system takes shape, the Ministry of Transport strengthens its foundation by commissioning Courtenay Coye LLP to draft the legal framework that will safeguard the public–private partnership and prevent a repeat of past failed consolidations.

 

Chester Williams, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Transport

“So to make sure there is not a repeat of what happened we have engaged Courtenay and Coye Law Firm to develop the legal framework for us. They are working on the article and memorandum of association that is going to be used to incorporate the company. I am happy to say to you that company has been formed last week, so we now have a National Bus Company. The next thing we need to work on is the PPP Agreement, it is going to be between the company and the government of Belize. It is going to spell out certain things that is going to work in favor of the company. And importantly, the National Bus Company Act. There is going be legislative backative of the National Bus Company to make sure it is protect. Now this is important for us. All the operators who agreed to be a part of this venture were all allowed to sign an agreement that they are not going to compete with the National Bus Company.”

 

Belize Builds Long‑Term Protections into Transport Overhaul

 

Belize’s push to modernize public transportation advances as the National Bus Company solidifies its legal footing, with the Ministry of Transport commissioning Courtenay Coye LLP to craft the framework that will protect the new public–private partnership from the failures of past consolidations. As the company moves closer to full rollout, the ministry also works to ensure its long‑term stability, preparing legislation that safeguards road service permits and anticipates future political shifts that could reshape the industry.

 

Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of Transport

“We learnt from our past experiences and what other jurisdictions do. That is why we have the legislation that is being prepared that will speak very clearly to how the road service permits that are under the National Bus Company are to be preserved and how future road service permits are to be issued. Now, it is very possible that in the next thirty of forty years when there is another government that then maybe you would have a setting, but your point is well taken, that they can reconsider. That is what the people, in our democracy you get representatives and if they have enough to make changes to the law that is what they will do, but not without cost. What the Novelo company did not have is legislation to protect them. And once there is a chance of court ruling with cost then those things have an impact on decision making. And secondly, we are betting that because of our extensive consultations across this country that the ones who will protect because they understand how it works will be the people.”

 

Belize’s transport overhaul aims to stay on track, with the ministry saying solid laws, not shifting politics, will keep the National Bus Company stable for years ahead.

 

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