Wally Nuñez Won’t Budge, But Tzul Is Coming for the Top Job

The race for San Pedro’s top job is gaining momentum, nearly a year ahead of municipal elections. Mayor Wally Nuñez has made it clear he’s not stepping aside, announcing a bid for a third term with the backing of Area Rep. Andre Perez. But he won’t have a free run. Enter Celestino Tzul, a familiar face who ran for council in 2018 and is now aiming higher. He’s leading what he calls a “New Era” movement, pitching fresh leadership and a stronger push to bring young people into local politics. With early lines now drawn, San Pedro is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political battlegrounds heading into 2027.

 

Reporter

“Municipal elections. Who are we going to see for San Pedro? Will there be a challenge?”

 

Andre Perez, Area Representative, Belize Rural South

“As far as the opposition challenging, I expect them to challenge. We’re having a team here, and again, it’s open for people to bid their applications. But of course, the mayor has his intent to run a third term, and I’m supporting him.”

“You’re supporting? Endorsed?”

 

Reporter

“Yeah, everybody’s free to apply. That’s it. So we’re not saying you can’t apply. That’s important.”

 

Celestino Tzul, Mayoral Hopeful

“I’ve always wanted to serve. This is my opportunity probably because God wanted it this way. I am pulling my slate and I’m trying to get people with me that will not bow to what I say, but rather challenge me if I’m wrong, just like I’ll challenge them if they are wrong. I love what I do, and to see my people in the situation that they are, that’s not what I want for them. They deserve better, and I know that we could do better. There’s so many things in place that can help my people to get out from where they are. Just don’t come and put one small little project, make them happy for a little while, and then you keep serving your own purpose in office. Because you are only spoon-feeding my people, you’re not giving them what they truly deserve. What I am coming to do is exactly that because I’m choosing my candidates based on the projects and the necessities that we need. When we get in office, then we’re gonna go and take on the bigger fights.”

 

The United Democratic Party is yet to announce its candidate for San Pedro.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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