Tne Belize Police Department has been monitoring and responding to two acts of civil disobedience in Southern Belize by members of the Belize National Teachers Union, said Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith. The incidents, which began around 5:00 AM, are part of the industrial action related to the ongoing salary dispute between the union and the government of Belize.
Both incidents involved teachers using vehicles to block roads at junctions in Dangriga and Bella Vista, respectively. ASP Smith stated, “The department appreciates and the country most appreciates that whilst teachers have their right to freedom of expression, which I understand to mean in this instance them registering their discontent, them expressing their right cannot be done in such a way that infringes on the rights of others.”
She said that “a relevant right in this instance is the right to freedom of movement, which is impacted by the blockage of roads, which certainly prevents citizens from getting from one point to another or to organize the day, and it may also have a cascading effect on their personal plans and the provision of emergency services by respective authorities.”
The department exercised restraint and discretion by giving the teachers “up to two hours to remove their vehicles and disperse,” according to ASP Smith. “It was only after this request was not met that actions were taken and the actions that were taken were very measured.”
The police are reviewing relevant laws, including the Criminal Code, the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, and the Control of Public Meetings and Public Processions Act, to identify offenses such as “obstructing the free flow of traffic, unlawful assembly, obstruction of the officers in the execution of their duties, and aggravated assault.”
ASP Smith stressed that the police commissioner has emphasized the importance of ensuring “all actions that are taken are measured, respectful, and in alignment with effective and lawful management of civil dissent.” She added, “While the department recognizes the importance of democracy to a healthy nation, the actions that are taken in pursuance to democracy must be done within the confines of the law.”
The police have warned that teachers involved in blocking the roads may face arrest and charges if they continue to obstruct public order.
