PUP Northern Caucus Backs BTL’s Smart Acquisition

The Northern Caucus of the People’s United Party (PUP) has thrown its support behind the proposed acquisition of Speednet(SMART) by  Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), even as protests and political opposition continue to grow around the deal.

The Caucus, which includes electoral divisions in Corozal, Orange Walk, and Belize Rural South, voted unanimously in favour of the aquisition following a special meeting held on Saturday in Orange Walk.

According to the Caucus, BTL officials outlined how the consolidation could strengthen the telecommunications sector by “reducing duplication, improving operational efficiency, and enabling greater investment in network infrastructure”. These changes, they said, could lead to better service, wider coverage, and faster technology upgrades for customers.

BTL also presented financial projections showing revenues could grow from about $167 million to $207 million, with dividends per share expected to rise by more than 200%. The Caucus said increased dividends could benefit major shareholders, including the Social Security Board of Belize, and help support the long-term sustainability of the Social Security Fund.

However, the endorsement comes amid growing public pushback.

Last Tuesday, supporters of the opposition United Democratic Party, along with some unions, protested outside BTL’s headquarters, opposing the acquisition and calling for greater transparency. The UDP also told News Five that it plans to stage another protest this Wednesday.

By Friday, a separate group, the Belize Communications Workers for Justice, held a demonstration demanding their unpaid severance pay. The group has said it plans to protest throughout the week.