Politics and Government
Politics and Government
PUP at 75 Exhibit Reaches San Pedro
The People’s United Party (PUP) is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a countrywide exhibit highlighting the party’s history and contributions to Belize. The exhibition, which features key moments from the PUP’s development and leadership, was officially opened in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, on Monday, February 9th, at the former House of Culture. The exhibit also includes highlights of the life and legacy of the party’s founding leader, the late Right Honourable George Cadle Price, who led Belize to independence in 1981.
Politics and Government
Nigel Belisle Reappointed President of National PUP Marshals Executive
For the third consecutive term, San Pedro’s Nigel Belisle has been sworn in as President of the National People’s United Party (PUP) Marshals Executive. The official ceremony took place on January 10th in Belize City, where Belisle was joined by fellow executive members Carol Francis, Vice President; Delvorine Bennet, Treasurer; and Josue Perez, Secretary.
Politics and Government
UDP outlines reform agenda at first press conference under new leader
On December 9th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held its first press conference in Belize City under the leadership of its newly elected and first female party leader, Honourable Tracy Taegar-Panton. Panton described the gathering as the start of a new chapter for the UDP, outlining a renewed direction and reaffirming the party’s commitment to unity and accountability as the country’s official Opposition. She emphasized that the party plans to take a more active role in scrutinizing the current administration led by the People’s United Party and addressing the urgent issues affecting Belizeans.
Politics and Government
Honorable Tracy Panton Becomes First Female Leader of the UDP
On November 30th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held its fifth national leadership convention since 2020, electing for the first time a female party leader, the Honorable Tracy Panton. The convention also marked another historic milestone with the election of the party’s first female chairperson, Senator Sheena Pitts. The Honorable Hugo Patt remained as First Deputy Party Leader, while Miguel Guerra of Benque Viejo del Carmen was elected Second Deputy Party Leader. Party members now hope the new leadership will guide a rebuilding process following the UDP’s continued struggles since losing the 2020 general election.
Politics and Government
Senator Gabriel Zetina Endorsed as UDP Caretaker for Belize Rural South
On Saturday, September 27th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) convened in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, to officially endorse Senator Honourable Gabriel Zetina as their new caretaker for the Belize Rural South (BRS) constituency. The constituency also includes the island community of Caye Caulker, and several supporters from La Isla Cariñosa traveled to San Pedro for the event held at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium at San Pedro High School.
Politics and Government
Minister Perez Sets Sustainability and Growth Targets for Blue Economy
Belize Rural South Area Representative and Minister of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, Honourable Andre Perez, has outlined his priorities for a second term in office. He said the focus will be on marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, and economic diversification across Belize’s waters.
Politics and Government
Independent Candidate Seleny Villanueva-Pott Re-Elected Caye Caulker Chairperson for a Third Time
The Caye Caulker electorate re-elected Seleny Villanueva-Pott as their Chairlady for the next three years in the village council elections held on Sunday, June 29th, on La Isla Cariñosa. Pott ran under an independent slate named Generation 7, of which five members/councillors were re-elected. The second slate, under the People’s United Party (PUP) and led by Celina Jimenez, managed to win one seat.
Politics and Government
Hicaqueños Prepare for Upcoming Village Council Election
On Sunday, June 29th, residents of La Isla Cariñosa, Caye Caulker, will head to the polls to elect a new village council. The election will see two slates contesting for leadership of San Pedro’s sister island. These include the incumbent independent slate led by Chairlady Seleny Villanueva-Pott and a slate under the People’s United Party (PUP), led by Celina Jimenez.
Politics and Government
The UDP Continues Efforts to Unify; No Clear Leader Yet
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is continuing efforts to move forward amidst internal challenges. The party, which currently holds five seats in the House of Representatives, recently saw the official swearing-in of the Honorable Tracy Panton as the first female Leader of the Opposition. However, according to Panton, the UDP remains without a clear leader following the loss of former party leader Shyne Barrow’s Mesopotamia seat in the March 12th general election. A national convention to elect a new leader is expected but has not yet been scheduled.
Politics and Government
Caye Caulker prepares for 2025 Village Council elections
As Belize gears up for the 2025 Village Council Elections, communities like Caye Caulker are drawing heightened national attention. Residents will soon head to the polls to elect their new village council, a decision that will directly influence local governance, development priorities, and representation.
Politics and Government
UDP holds press conference to discuss current state of government affairs
The leadership of the United Democratic Party (UDP), led by Opposition Leader Tracy Panton, held a press conference on April 29, 2025, in the Toucan A Conference Room at Belize Biltmore Plaza. During this event, they strongly critiqued the current state of government affairs in Belize and outlined their vision for the future.
