BTL Appeals to ‘National Interest’ Amid Pushback

As scrutiny over BTL’s proposed takeover of Speednet grows, the company is making its case, asking Belizeans to see the deal as a move made in the national interest. But with unions, senators, politicians, and protesters all raising red flags, many are asking: are the answers matching the concerns? In a recent statement, BTL acknowledged the public backlash and stressed that no final decision has been made. The company says the deal is still under review and must clear legal and regulatory hurdles before moving forward. BTL argues the benefits are clear, stronger infrastructure, faster internet, wider access, and a boost to Belize’s digital future. But critics say those promises sound good on paper and short on detail. They want clearer answers on costs, risks, competition, and who ultimately pays. The company says it has been consulting widely, pointing to meetings with employees, unions, the opposition, business groups, regulators, and the Public Utilities Commission. Still, many Belizeans say transparency means more than closed‑door consultations, especially when key financial details remain undisclosed. To counter concerns about price, BTL says an independent valuation was done by Moore Belize, following international standards. And it highlights millions invested in infrastructure, education, and community programs as proof of its commitment to the country. BTL also promises job protection, uninterrupted service, stable prices, and strict regulatory oversight. Yet questions persist, how long prices stay stable, how competition is protected, and how aggressively regulators will step in if the merged company dominates the market. BTL says the PUC will have the final say and that Belizeans remain at the center of the process. The public, however, is still asking for more than assurances, calling for full disclosure, clear justification, and answers that go beyond a press release.