SUNDAY February 26, 2012 ISSUE NO: 16 PRICE: $1.00 www.facebook.com/ The Independent IndependentThe ADDRESS TO BCCI Blayd Youth Voices BY PUP LEADER Christopher FRANCIS FONSECA Vernon Ring Out See pages 10 & 11 See page 17 See page 15 Lived by the gun! Ricky Valencia executed before historic first bench trial

Thursday, February 22, 2012 say. Valencia was taken to the BELIZE CITY – Ricky Va- KHMH where he was official- Rhett Fuller lencia, 28, was executed last ly pronounced dead. Denied Bail night on Ceasar Ridge Road Other reports suggest between 7:00 and 8:00pm by that Valencia had stopped in a fusillade of bullets, reports front of Little Wilt Place situ- say, from a gunman who sim- ated at the Wilton Cumber- ply walked up to his vehicle batch Field and was talking leaned in and opened fire with to someone there when the an automatic pistol. gunman or gunmen rode up Police report that they and opened fire. found the fatally wounded Ricky Valencia’s name Ricky Valencia seated motion- has been in the news since his less in the driver’s seat of his late teens as far as our records white Toyota Corolla bearing can track, however his claim Tuesday, February 21, 2012 license plate BZ-C-35436 in a to notoriety is his alleged in- BELIZE CITY: Belizean pool of blood with gunshot volvement in the shooting of businessman Rhett Fuller wounds in the left and right Prime Minister Barrow’s law is in solitary confinement side of his head also the left partner Rodwell Williams in at the Belize Central Prison and right shoulder and his left what was the parking lot of his attorney Eamon Cour- fist. Valencia, reportedly a ste- their Albert Street Law Firm, tenay told the media today, vedore, was driving west in the Barrow and Williams on May after Supreme Court Justice direction of the Port of Belize 31, 2010. Adolph Lucas, Sr., denied an when he came under fire. The Ricky Valencia The incident sparked un- application for bail today. vehicle simply stopped, police Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2

Detainee found dead in police custody! SSB: Merlene on Tuesday that around 5:00am Bailey resigned! San Pedro police were called out to Tuesday, February 21, 2012 Family does not nearby world-famous Phoenix Re- BELIZE CITY: This af- buy police story sort where they were handed Miguel ternoon, the board of direc- Martinez of San Pedro by the resort’s tors of the Belize Social se- security guards. curity Board issued a release Thursday, February 23rd, 2012 Martinez was reportedly de- which said in part that yes- SAN PEDRO: Miguel Martinez, tained for disorderly on the resort’s terday it had accepted CEO 31, is not the first to have died in premises while armed with a ma- Merlene Bailey Martinez’s police custody. He is now a statistic chete. According to police, Martinez resignation “due to negative in what many believe has become was taken into police custody and public criticism and its im- a disturbing practice by police to placed in lock-up at the San Pedro pact to her family and her use excessive force when detaining police station where he continued to Christian community, as well persons. The deadly result has once make noise, police say. as, to protect the S.S.B. from again resurrected public outrage at Their report says that when po- negative publicity.” the Belize Police Department. Miguel Martinez lice later checked on him when he Continued on page 2 Police issued a bland statement Continued on page 2 2 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012

as well as assassination attempts be- fore. Valencia had escaped unscathed in April 2010 when two men in a vehi- cle opened up on him. His girlfriend at the time was shot in the abdomen Lived by the gun! and legs. The street talk was that Usher was Continued from page 1 Not to be left out or ignored the armed holdup of a messenger which killed because he had turned state ease throughout the nation as lo- SSG sent out a release making known netted the robbers $70,000. Valencia evidence in the bank robbery case cal medical authorities did battle their discontent but Barrow did not has become a near legend for his re- but few think it was as simple as that. to save Williams’ life before he was meet with them instead Minister of puted daring. The past few years has seen three of flown to Jackson Memorial Hospi- Police Doug Singh and CYDP Direc- Valencia had also been charged the SSG “baddest” gunned down. Re- tal in Miami, Florida for advanced tor Edward Broaster were deployed in the April 2011 armed holdup of puted SSG boss Andre “Dre” Trapp treatment. He spent six months in to meet with the SSG. the Heritage Bank Orange Walk was executed on the very doorstep of treatment and returned to work in In their release the SSG accused Branch and his alleged accomplice the nation’s courthouse in June 2010, December of 2010 with a bodyguard. the Prime Minister and representa- and neighbor, Noel “Biggs” Usher and since 2008 several young men Valencia and Akeem Thurton, 18 tives of the Government of “mak- had been gunned down just down have been shot dead in the area of years old at the time, were arrested ing their own truce with the George the street and around the corner from Kraal Road, Fabers Road and Yabor- and charged with the attempted Street Gang. GOB is using the SSG where Ricky met his end in similar ough/Cesar Ridge Road. murder. Police at the time said that as their scapegoat to mend their re- fashion. There have also been two grenade the two were known affiliates of the lationship with the George Street Usher was slain in a barrage of detonations and one live grenade Southside Gangsters (SSG). Investi- Gang,” the SSG charged in their re- shots by two men on bicycles who turned over to the police. What is be- gators had also obtained a caution lease. George Street’s main base is in caught up with him a block from his lieved to have been a deadly rivalry statement from one of the accused the heart of Barrow’s constituency home in October of last year. Three between several gangs had appeared along with a statement from the the Queen’s Square Division. months before he had barely escaped to have been calmed the past few person who loaned them the bike Ricky Valencia’s violent end was being killed when he was shot in the months and now there are some who that they allegedly used as their for many a foregone conclusion. Our neck by two assassins who apparently believe that Ricky Valencia’s death is transport to carry out the attempted reports are that he had just been bided their time only to return and part of a “mopping up” operation that hit. Police have not produced any released after being detained for complete the job. have more to do with other things evidence on who hired the men to several hours by police for question- Both Usher and Valencia had than a “mere gang rivalry”. carry out the hit and why. That was ing in the broad daylight downtown beat armed robbery and murder raps, We may never know. left to a lot of rumor and specula- tion. Rumors and speculations are again abuzz after Valencia’s execu- tion last night. He and his alleged accomplice, Akeem Thurton ap- Detainee SSB: Merlene peared before Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin on Monday, February 6th, found dead Bailey resigned! for the commencement of what was billed as a landmark bench trial in police Continued from page 1 the Board had terminated Bailey- since it would have been the first in The board and the Barrow admin- Martinze over the objections of its Belize since the law was passed in custody! istration is hoping that with Bailey- Chair Lois Young-Barrow but she May of 2011. Martinez’ departure the spotlight of showed up to work yesterday. Thurton and Valencia on the day scrutiny will shine elsewhere after sev- Following a board meeting of commencement asked the court eral weeks of speculation, scandal and last night the deputy chairman, for adjournment citing that their an investigation. Dennis Jones, who acted as chair- attorneys were unavailable, one be- Almost two months ago the Gov- man in Young-Barrow’s absence cause he did not know that the trial ernment had announced that it was told Channel 5 News: “ was to start on that day and the other writing off housing loans owing to the “We had a process which be- because his attorney had informed retirement scheme that had principal gan with the placement of Mrs. that he could not represent him in loan balances of less than $50,000, and Martinez, the C.E.O. and the the matter. The case was adjourned almost immediately it was revealed internal auditor on administra- to Wednesday, February 9, 2012 and Continued from page 1 that the CEO and several of the top tive leave. When the accusations further adjourned to next month. quieted they discovered him level management staffers had -bor were being made, we felt that Valencia was remanded to pris- motionless in the cell. Although rowed from commercial banks and was the best thing to do to allow on in October 2011 after he was im- Martinez was found apparently paid down in order to qualify. them space where an investiga- plicated in a robbery and was found dead early that morning, Dr. Mrs. Bailey-Martinez and the In- tion could be done. The inves- carrying the SIM card of a Black- Javier Zuniga wasn’t called in ternal Auditor, Denise Mahler, were tigation was initiated; we got a berry phone that was jacked from a until approximately 8:00am. placed on “administrative leave” and draft report which we then sent young woman. Magistrate Dorothy Martinez was pronounced dead an investigation commenced. to the two individuals or them to Flowers remanded Valencia after shortly after. Last week it was announced that review. They reviewed this report considering his other run-ins with Other reports give a differ- and had comments which we the law which included the attempt- ent version of what transpired then took back to the investiga- ed murder of Rodwell Williams, the in police lock-up. Martinez was tors, PKF. And they made some robbery of Heritage Bank in Orange reportedly locked up with hand- comments to us in a discussion Walk and handling stolen goods. cuffs on and one report alleges Rhett Fuller last Thursday. We have since re- Unconfirmed report is that Valen- that he was beaten while cuffed. ceived the resignation of Mrs. cia was released on bail about one Another source told the In- Denied Bail Martinez which we accepted and month ago. dependent that witnesses saw Continued from page 1 we will ask the acting C.E.O., An apparent rift had developed police beating an intoxicated Lucas ruled that Fuller was Mrs. Vega, to hold over for the between the SSG and GOB since the Martinez in front of the police a flight risk because “circum- duration of the period coming attack on Rodwell Williams and it station before he was taken in- stances have changed”. up until we can work out transi- became apparent when the Prime side. Marinez’s father, Emmanuel Fuller, 40, has been fighting tional arrangements with Misses Minister met with Belize City gangs Diego, said that his son’s pants deportation to the United States Martinez and Mrs. Vega.” to broker a truce in September of last was found in front of the police for nearly 12 years and is await- Jones reportedly told Chan- year. The SSG which Valencia and station which suggests that some- ing a decision as to whether or nel 5 News that no other staffers Thurton are allegedly affiliated with thing other than what police are not the Belize Court of Appeal will be subject to any discipline. were reportedly boxed out of nego- claiming happened to his son. will entertain a judicial review Mrs. Bailey-Martinez thus leaves tiations with Prime Minister Barrow Unconfirmed report to us also of the Minister of Foreign Af- with her write off and severance when he cut short a trip to St. Kitts says that the cell where Martinez fairs decision to extradite him. package. to attend installation ceremony for was placed was emptied prior to US justice officials have been Our reports are that Ms. Lois the new CCJ President, Sir Dennis him being placed in it and alleg- trying to extradite Fuller since Young-Barrow had left the coun- Byron and instead returned home edly further beaten. As police al- 1998. (See Just Sayin column on try to seek specialist medical at- to broker a truce with the gangs. ways say – they are investigating. Page 5). tention in the United States. SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 3 4 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 TOLEDO IS STILL THE EDITORIAL FORGOTTEN DISTRICT By Valentino Shal Children here are still afflicted by basic ill- Toledo is still an afterthought nesses such as respiratory infections and in national politics. If someone tells diarrhoea. Getting to see a doctor or a nurse you otherwise, that person is trying takes hours, if not days. Common medi- to deceive you. With a population of cines such as pain killers and antibiotics Sycophants and about 30,000 people Toledo is most are hard to come by. Two tiny pharmacies economically depressed region of serve a population almost half of that of Belize. It is used mainly to provide Belize City. Most children after completing resources for the rest of the national primary education will never see the doors criminals economy when needed. It is like an to a high school while their parents eke out If the Barrow administration is to be believed, Belize’s macro-eco- internal colony for the rest of the a living by subsistence farming and have nomic picture is a very good one, and the only dark cloud on its horizon is country. Its people and natural re- never had a bank account in this modern the increase in interest payments for the so-called Superbond. sources are exploited for the benefit age of mobile phone banking. of others and what ends up here is Toledo’s political leaders today are si- In a presentation before the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Indus- barely a trickle; insufficient to create lent, as their predecessors have been. They try this week, UDP Leader Dean Barrow seemed upbeat about Belize’s a strong economy and improve the cower in the face of Belize City politicians economic prospects, and was insistent that it was his stewardship that standard of living for the people. and fear that the little they have will be had shepherd Belize safely through the world economic recession and Toledo is the poorest district taken away or they keep quiet in order to had placed it on the path to prosperity. in Belize. With such a high level help only themselves and few close friends The big numbers are good he claims. There is consistent GDP growth, of poverty, it was given special at- with the crumbs they are given. To add measurable increases in revenues and reserves, a narrowing of the trade tention in the National Poverty to the humiliation, this entire district of Elimination Strategy and Action about 30,000 people has only two Area deficit and some $350,000,000 was invested in the tourism sector last year. Plan (NPESAP) which incidentally Representatives in parliament. Politics Yes, he says in a by the way fashion, government revenues were pri- terminated in 2011. At one point in this district is petty, governance crude marily bolstered as a result of higher prices for oil exports but that is a there was even a Toledo Poverty and leadership mediocre. Public service is good thing. Reduction Action Plan written spe- a dilapidated version of excellence. Local In Mr. Barrow’s view Belize is more helped than hurt by high oil pric- cifically for the South. Like so much organizations, as many as there are, lack es. Government revenues are increased by the higher prices for our oil that goes on in government, no one the organizational quality to meaningfully will be held to account for the fail- affect the standard of living in this district. exports even if ordinary Belizeans are hard hit by higher pump prices. ure to implement these plans. Who The humility of the people perhaps gets in Right now we have higher reserves and a narrowing trade deficit be- will evaluate whether anything was the way of making more serious demands cause we import less and on the international balance sheet this looks achieved by the NPESAP or the as these challenges seem insurmountable. good. The ruling politicians would rather not have us view this as the Toledo Action Plan? It seems that The remainder of BNTF 5, a grant program result of a perceptible lessening of local economic activity because there once those plans were written no by the Caribbean Development Bank and are less people employed and less money being spent. one bothered to look at them again the remainder of the Banana Support Pro- The Barrow administration claims that there is much by way of new much less actually tried to imple- gramme that completed some health cen- ment the strategies outlined in ters, water systems and electrified a couple investments, both by local and foreign businessmen, and have produced them. Toledo along with Southside villages in 2007 are the most recent activi- statistics to buttress their claim. It is not being seen or felt on the micro Belize City were designated Spe- ties that can be considered development level, however, and the scepticism among those attending the presenta- cial Development Areas. Southside investments for Toledo. This is absolutely tion who were not partisan was apparent. got RESTORE Belize; Toledo, the insufficient and deplorable. We can understand why these may seem to be the best of times for usual. Nothing. It was special only Toledo’s biggest export is people, as some Belizeans. If you are politically connected to the UDP your econom- on paper. To be fair, RESTORE Be- those who can, leave this district. This peo- ic picture the past four years has been a good one. If you are not then it lize came about mostly because the ple-drain leave vast agricultural lands un- city residents have become sick and developed and dreams of a vibrant society either hasn’t improved or it has worsened. tired of the crime and violence and with a growing economy are deferred to an This is the “cognitive dissonance” in our socio-economic picture – we not because someone was actually unknown and uncertain future. This stag- are a nation divided between the UDP and the rest. We would like to using the poverty elimination plan. nant environment aborts ambitions and think that 6-7 years ago when the UDP were levelling the same charge at Today much of the attention life continues to be a painful struggle. It is the then ruling PUP they were right. Ours is a system of patronage and on Toledo is focused on the whole- under these circumstances that the plun- victimization. sale extraction of rosewood by der of the forests by locals to earn a few highly politically connected “busi- dollars, and gains some sympathies. Sym- The “smart” people know when to jump ship, or when to “copper their nessmen” and the oil exploration pathies however, will not develop Toledo or bets”. They know how to keep their options with each party open. At this activities in the Sarstoon-Temash Belize. Something needs to be done and be point in time we cannot berate them for their expediency – life ha’ad out National Park. Were it not for these done urgently. Surely another poverty re- ya. exploitative activities no one would duction action plan is not what we should But there is a large middle class, that is persons living on fixed wages be really talking about Toledo. Why have in mind. We have had too many of who, despite being employed and earning a pay check, are trapped be- anyone who bears some degree of those. One thing is for certain, the lives tween the rising cost of living and stagnant wages, and who’s only hope of responsibility doesn’t even bother and future of 10% of the population of this to talk about the need for employ- country must cease to be an afterthought. a better life is hitting some elusive jackpot. For them the macro-economic ment or the need to foster business It is probably time they took matters into picture means little – what is negatively impacting is how much less their and investment is mindboggling. their own hands because Toledo is still the wages buy with each passing year, or so it seems. There is the highway to connect to forgotten district. Many of them are the folks who when polled tell you they don’t know Guatemala through Jalacte that is who they are going to vote for, or that they have not even decided to vote. being built but no one has really They are frustrated and unhappy with a political system that does not of- explained how it is going to work in the best interest of the people fer them the hope of a better life short of being sycophantic or criminal. The here. There has not even been talk It should not be that way. of whether proper customs and im- Independent The most common and perhaps greatest indictment of the now ended migrations posts will be built to fa- Newspaper Barrow administration is that they promised to change all that. These cilitate the movement of people and is published by trade. While this modern highway have been the best of times for a few, and the worst of times for many. Adsports is being built, streets, village feeder Their argument that the previous administration was bad is acceptable, @1442 Scallop Avenue, Belize City roads and farm roads are totally but things weren’t bad for so many under the previous administration Editor: Glenn Tillett neglected and are in a state of total either. Admin. Asst: Katyce Flowers disrepair. Farmers can’t get to their Marketing Director: Marshall Nunez Sure the Barrow administration have begun implementing some mea- farms. Villagers can’t get to their vil- sures that offer some relief assistance to some Belizeans, but if we are to Logistics: Gerald Garbutt lage. One school was inaccessible Printer: Norman’s Printing make more than a dent in the now endemic poverty ravaging Belize we to the teachers because of the bad Address all correspondence: need poverty alleviation, reduction and eradication programs. And this road conditions. The Editor best one we know, the tried and true one is to simply grow the economy. Many of Toledo’s youth still P.O. Box 1710 or Economic growth is the rising tide that lifts all boats. do their homework by the light of [email protected] home-made lamps and travel very Not fancy speeches or ringing denunciations, and no amount of ex- Inquiries: long distances early in the morning Tel: 203-2902 or 663-7285 cuses, no manner of eliding can change that. in pursuit of a secondary education. SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 5 Impartial View: Internationally instantaneously impactful By Rhenae Nunez By Marshall Nunez, Sr. these same thought provoking questions with you all as we prepare to go and cast With the elections less than 2 our votes on March 7th. weeks away the political conversa- Last week Impartial View com- JUST SAYIN’ tion is tipping the Fahrenheit scale. mented on the squandering of cash on Over the past few weeks I’ve been the nominations. Wednesday night the listening to people from all different UDP bussed in thousands of supporters Rhett Fuller - is this sectors of the community and I’ve from across the country to create the per- been engaged in some conversations ception that they are so popular in Belize and I have even been in some de- City. They had a massive crowd at the ral- really his swan song? bates and argument. When you take ly after the launch of their manifesto, but out the emotions and you deal with it is estimated that the rally cost nearly a And is he Belize’s quid the substance in those discussions hundred thousand dollars. And the real- there are some very important infor- ity is only about 25% of the people that pro quo? mation and I wish to share some of were there are from Belize City. Then of them with you all. course politics is about perception and n October of last year while out said, ‘This guy’s wanted for murder I’ve listened to directors of com- they are trying to create the perception. Rhett Fuller awaited the deci- in Florida,’” the Miami News Times Re- panies, senior managers, and other What are facts is that the PUP and sion of the Minister of Foreign ported. members of the private sector. I’ve UDP launched there manifestos this week and the UDP television, station Affairs on his fate, whether According to the report, Fuller of- listened to ordinary Belizeans on Channel 7 had to agree that the PUP he will be extradited to Mi- fered to testify if he “would not get the street corners, to students, to taxi operator and I’ve listened to manifesto entitled “Deliverance for Be- ami, Florida in the United States to face slapped with first degree murder I lize” has a far better economic plan for supporters of the major political first degree murder charge, he attorney charge.” The story went on to say that parties as well as those who favor the country than the UDP’s “Always for Eamon Courtney said that their position the detectives were hoping to get Fuller independent candidates and have a The People”. Earlier this week Channel 7 then was a case of “do or die”. But Fuller to testify against his alleged partner in more independent view. The single aired an excerpt from a UDP rally in Or- hung around to sing another day. crime, Carlos Cuello, in another case. common denominator among all ange Walk where prime minster Barrow But life for him since August of last Cuello, the detectives claimed had mur- is that they believe that their qual- was pondering to his UDP supporters year when he turned himself in, has not dered a woman, Marisa Maugeri. “They ity of life is worse now than it was 4 and he was captured saying “I don’t give a been a bed of roses having been incar- (Miami detectives) knew that Carlos years ago. Most of them agree that damn about the rating agencies.” cerated at the Hattieville Central Prison had killed her too, and they needed me as a nation we are less safe now than Later in the same excerpt he said in solitary confinement and only being (Fuller) to testify against him.” we were 4 years ago. Similar to re- “There cannot be a bad barrower without allowed only four hours of sunlight per “I thought, Holy shit, I’m in trouble sults of previous polls there are some a bad lender.” week. now,” he says. “I was scared as shit. But who believes that the UDP will win, I don’t think Mr. Barrow realizes that It makes no sense to me why Mr. right there, I told Ed Hill no. I knew it there are some who believe the PUP although he was only pondering aloud Fuller would be treated so inhumanely was wrong. I wasn’t going to pin that on will win and there are those who are to his supporter, in this technological in a Belize prison when he has not com- Carlos,” Fuller said according to the Mi- waiting to make up their minds. era that we live as you say something it mitted any crime against the state of ami News Time report. Another stat that I pick up is plastered all over the world. So when Belize. It makes no sense that anyone “Fuller’s attorney, Eamon Courte- from these discussions is that many he was trying to play “hero” for his ordi- would be subjected to such treatment nay, filed numerous appeals,” the News people are disappointed with the nary UDP supporters he ended up creat- ing major offence for the international anywhere. Times reported. “The heart of his argu- performance of the Barrow admin- funding agencies and the rating agen- It begs the question: why Fuller is ment was that Hill had coerced damag- istration. Others while not totally committed to going PUP believe that cies. When S&P downgraded Belize rat- being dragged over the coals all this ing information out of Fuller by prom- the PUP does a better job of manag- ings recently they stated that it was based time? Why all of a sudden are we so con- ising a deal. Hill says that allegation is ing the economy. My contribution on the attitude of the government. Mr. siderate of treaty obligations in Fuller’s ridiculous: “I’m in no position to offer to the debates, conversations or ar- Barrow may have committed one of the case when there are records of cases anyone deals in the first place. I’m a de- guments have had to do with my greatest travesties of his political life. where Belizeans have been successfully tective, not a prosecutor.” provoking question of whether they Remember that prime minster Bar- defended against extradition? Miami cop Ed Hill would face his think that there is a state of passive row wanted to give the World Bank a This is not to diminish what Fuller is own problems with his department resistance by the voters against the piece of his mind for a loan that was ap- wanted for or the fact that someone died for which he was disciplined. “Fuller’s Barrow administration. My question proved for the country. Belize still hasn’t but from my research the United States claim that Hill was duplicitous, mean- usually follows that compares now gotten the money from the World Bank. got their man. He has served time and while, gained some legitimacy in 2007 to the period of 2005-2007 when the Remember when Mr. Barrow told us has moved on with his life. I am not clear when the detective had his own bizarre then Leader of the Opposition Dean that he chastised the British Prime Min- on what is considered in an extradition run-in with the law. In May of that Barrow declared that his party was ister, Camaron, and since then BATSUB matter but given certain things that have year, Hill arrested a 44-year-old house embarking on a sustained campaign has pulled out of Belize resulting in the come to light regarding this case, it begs painter and driveway paver named Da- of civil disobedience. That civil dis- loss of 30 million dollars from our local the question: why is Rhett Fuller is being vid Superville on second-degree murder obedience campaign sparked dem- economy. made to walk the plank? charges. Superville had a much younger onstrations by public officers, teach- Now Barrow is going out of his way According to a story in a Miami wife, a gorgeous, 30-year-old Russian ers, students and ngo’s. The follow to pretend that he is always for the peo- publication called Miami News Times, named Anna Gulevitskaya whom he’d up is do you believe all those organi- ple? Given the situation above I ask all the voters of Belize to imagine the pos- North Miami Beach police Ed Hill who met online and called a “mail-order zations, the ngo’s, the public officers, sibilities if the Barrow administration is spent decades tracking Fuller said that bride.” With her husband in jail, Hill the teachers and the students are all satisfied with the performance of the reelected. “He (Fuller) fell in with a bad crowd, es- bought her hotel rooms, tickets to Rus- Barrow administration? I will leave Just my Impartial View. pecially Carlos Cuello.” sia, and dinners, and the relationship He (Fuller) even regularly phoned turned sexual,” the News Times report- Ed Hill , the North Miami Beach police ed. detective in charge of Miller’s murder, to “When Superville got out on bail neglect of duty,” the report went on. “I blame this whole situation to- check in. Whenever they caught Cuello, six months later, he learned from for- According to the News Times, offi- day on Ed Hill,” he says. “Obviously, the Fuller said he told Hill, he would return mer customers that his wife was shag- cer Ed Hill was not done there. “A hand- mistake to run in the first place is on my to Miami to testify against him. ging the cop who had booked him: Ed writing expert testified that Hill had shoulders. But I trusted him, and I think “Fuller’s story took the first of sev- Hill. Internal affairs investigators soon forged Superville’s signature on a form this whole case today and the drive to eral bizarre turns in 1997. That Octo- found Hill guilty of conduct unbecom- waiving his Miranda rights. bring me back to Miami comes from his ber, a local police officer showed up ing an officer and civil service violations, “What I’ve read here is appall- being angry that I wouldn’t help them at his home and carted him off. When and suspended him for three weeks. He ing,” Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Jorge with Maugeri’s case.” he walked into a humid interrogation was suspended again in July 2009, after Cueto said. The murder case against The series of events in this saga has room, Fuller found Hill with two oth- a friend of Gulevitskaya’s was murdered Superville might be dropped altogether me questioning the veracity of the case er Dade cops. The detectives had finally in West Little River. Hill showed up at because of Hill’s ethical lapses. against Fuller and why it seems that the caught a break in Miller’s murder case the crime scene and pretended to be Rhett Fuller believes this behavior Government of Belize is hell bent on two years earlier, when the New York part of a “Russian task force” to draw in- shows Hill would have been willing to extraditing him when the person who Police Department had responded to a formation out of Miami-Dade police in- illegally strong-arm him into pinning heads the investigation character has domestic disturbance and found Carlos vestigators. Again, he was found guilty Maugeri’s murder on Carlos Cuello in left much to be questioned….just say- Cuello’s girlfriend so angry that she flat- of conduct unbecoming an officer and exchange for a deal. in…. 6 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 BLUE NOTES: Leadership vs Leadership

here is overwhelming in 1984. That year the UDP, a mutant of against all the good governance prin- constituency, has served as Attorney anecdotal evidence and various opposition parties, finally broke ciples that he vowed to uphold. His General and distinguished himself as statistical data to sup- the lock-out from control of public poli- family and friends benefited unduly. Minister of Education in the previous port the assertion that cy and defeated the monolithic PUP for He downplayed the Public Accounts administration, and has served for a the character of the the first time in a very convincing fash- Committee. He trivialized the Auditor short time as Leader of the Opposition leaderT is what defines the movement led. ion. For many who lost, Dean Barrow’s General’s Reports. He emasculated the in the House. He is a very unassuming A recent pollster puts it quite succinctly: victory offered some consolation. He Integrity Commission. He disrespected person. A man no doubt of rare humil- the political leader is interchangeable clearly expressed his desire to purge his the Chief Justice and effectively nullified ity, friendly but firm. He is immensely with the political party it leads. Let us party of its colonial mentality and root the Appellate Court’s decision by using tolerant but certainly not weak. He has reflect on the leadership of George Price, out the politics of hate generally. He was the disproportionate power of the state. the qualities of competence, courage Philip Goldson, Manuel Esquivel, Said to be the master of triangulating. He He derides those who differ with him and integrity for leadership. Those who Musa and the parties they led. Were not would elevate party politics to a higher and treat them with contempt. He be- did not follow him over the years could the parties they led somewhat charac- level- the end of what many perceived trayed his friends with no remorse; even have seen much of him in these last teristic of their political souls? – at least as emerging pork barrel politics and po- the Lord who nurtured him while in the months. Francis is simply natural. this is the way it seems the voters gener- litical tribalism. The Hon. Dean Barrow wilderness. He abuses the Immigration Those who went to the Chamber of ally perceived them - Belizean identity was reelected in 1989 but his party lost. and Election laws for his electoral ben- Commerce hosting of the two leaders and Independence, Pro-British and Pas- Dean was apparently ahead of his par- efit. He commandeers public money for had a wonderful opportunity to com- sionately Anti-Guatemala, Frugal to the ty. His party’s mind-set was not ready his campaign with effrontery. Rather pare. Barrow not displaying his usual point of being Parsimonious, Economic for change and the people changed than punish he rewards known rogue arrogance, perhaps humbled by the Growth bordering on Extravagance. them. The UDP was reelected in 1993 ministers once they tow the line. Is this Iron Lady he derided from a distance, On March 7th, 2012 we will be faced but then lost again this time devastat- a life of enigma? Or is it the rat in the spoke of all he will be doing if elected. with the choice of not two but three ingly in 1998. This was to be the third cellar of the soul. But much of what he said he will be do- leaders for those who vote on the basis degree frustration for Dean Oliver Bar- Bobby Lopez, leader of the BUA, ing was what he said four years ago and of the leadership principle. We will have row- the end of his political career. But appears to be a fairly decent young man was very much elusive of why he called the incumbent the PM Dean Barrow of then along came his benefactor, finan- with good intentions for his constitu- the elections one whole year before. The the UDP, Hon. Francis Fonseca, undis- cial not spiritual, who nurtured him and ents and those beyond. But the reality healthy overview of the economy nar- puted leader of the PUP, and Bobby Lo- boosted his morale while in the political of our electoral politics is to get control rated by him was clearly contradicted by pez, leader of the BUA. I firmly believe wilderness. The man and his time had of public policy through the legisla- the economic figures he circulated. that in making that choice we need to converged. He will finally be king and tures. At best they are hoping to be able Fonseca gave a very lucid picture fathom deeply the cellar of their souls. could translate his noble ideas into their to force a coalition, but with whom? of where he wants to go. No grandiose We need to walk cautiously down the physical equivalent. He led his party to a Should the voters take a chance or cal- projects and pie in the sky promises, just corridors to their cellars and quickly massive victory in 2008 on a strong plat- culate at a risk? getting the basics done that have been switch their lights on. Only so we will form of zero tolerance for corruption. Hon. Francis Fonseca, the man who somewhat eluding previous adminis- really know if there are rats in the cellar But that was to be his elusive dream. had the courage to pick up the mantle trations. He presented a very common of their souls. Was it the Lord Acton’s absolute power of leadership, unified his party, and in sense road map as to how he intends to PM Dean Barrow the then young that betrayed him? Did the obsession a short time put it in a state of readiness get us there. upstart and promising lawyer was a with wanting to be King wear down that all the polls are showing the party This is it. Don’t continue down the rising star in the UDP when he over- his soul? No. It was the rat that was in neck and neck with the UDP or in some road to perdition. Look seriously at the whelmingly won his first electoral con- the cellar of his soul nourished by the cases inching away. Fonseca has had new destination and how we can get test in the Queen Square constituency harshness of the wilderness. He went two electoral victories in the Freetown there. SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 7 8 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012

are out of work and still have your family to take care of, now is definitely not the time to be a big spender inancial ense • If you have health insurance keep it F S - if a medical catastrophe hits while you are unemployed it will be financially crippling. I know that health insurance providers allow you to convert your health insurance plan from Coping with Job Loss your employer. Alternatively, if your spouse is working and have a medical plan, ensure that career? you get onto their plan. 3. Check your education and skills • Keep your life insurance – for good- Mrs. Judy McCutcheon – are they up to date? ness sake’s if you have a life insurance plan is currently doing her 4. Do you have the time and money please maintain it. When we are in a finan- International Masters in to invest at this time to update your skills cial bind the first thing we get rid of is our life Business Administration at set? insurance. If you are the sole breadwinner in the University of the West 5. Is there enough money in the till your family and times are tough, think about Indies; she is also in the to sustain you while you make the career the reality if you are no longer around to pro- final stages on completing change? vide for them. It may not seem tangible right her CGA (Certified General • Job references - Don’t be em- now but ask a widow about the value of life in- Accountant) barrassed about losing your job. Shout surance. While in Belize Mrs. it from the mountain top, let all your • Have an emergency spending plan – McCutcheon worked as a friends, family, and acquaintances know, revise your spending habits. STOP using your Financial Accountant for a since they might prove to be a good credit card. As a matter of fact, seek to pay it large corporation and also source of reference for you. Use network- off in full. as an Advisor. She believes ing to your advantage, join associations, In the event of a job loss don’t panic. Don’t that we are all responsible for and link up with others in your field. make hasty financial decisions that could have our own financial wellbeing adverse effects on your finances well into the and that we should do all in Another idea is to volunteer your time to our power to ensure that our helping others; my personal preference future. While all the reports seem to repre- financial future is secure. is the Belize Red Cross Society. sent doom and gloom – this too shall pass and • Handle your separation package things will get better. Whatever happens, don’t with the utmost care – remember you put your financial future in jeopardy.

By Judy M. McCutcheon

Re-engineering, restructuring, downsizing, rightsizing, mergers, and layoffs have been very prevalent since the global economic downturn started in 2008, and by the look of things we may not see any reprieve until 2015 or there- abouts. Situations like these have become a daily staple for many households across the globe and Belize, unfortunately, has not been spared from this economic di- saster. People are losing their jobs as businesses fight to keep their doors open and no matter what happens breadwin- ners need to ensure that their families are provided for, so there is a great deal of stress in an economy such as this. Losing a job is traumatic, but it really does not have to be financially disastrous. We live in a global village in which change is but the only constant, what we must realize is that change is happening rapidly and it’s happening at a company near you. Whilst being laid off or getting down- sized may be beyond our control, there are some things we can do financially to ensure that we stay afloat even when we feel that our ship might be sinking. It can be very stressful dealing with the loss of income and other benefits, but you can take some action to make your transition more manageable and less stressful for all concerned. Some im- portant moves in the early stages can put you on the right track until you become employed again; making any financial mistake at this time can prove to be disas- trous well into the future. Here are some things you can do to keep you buoyant until your ship comes in: • Look for work immediately – do not misjudge the market. Sometimes it might be tempting to take a little holiday before you start looking for work – don’t. In the present economic state, it’s best to start looking for work right away, you don’t want to be using up all your finan- cial resources at this time • Career re-assessment – now might be good time to look at a change in careers, but before you make such a drastic move ponder on the following considerations: 1. Realistically, is it the time to make a change? 2. Are you qualified for this new SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 9 1026 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 11

earnings but also create thousands of administration never utilized this struc- pass on this cost to borrowers by lending discussion would include: high paying jobs for Belizeans. These ture for the long-term management and at high rates. While prudent regulation Duty exemption on any capital ADDRESS TO BELIZE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE tools include such basic advantages as sustenance of these proceeds. Instead, it requires the use of some of these tools goods and inputs into capital projects for our language, our law, our people, our squandered these proceeds to meet se- of monetary policy that do attract such the next 12 months. geographic closeness to North America vere budgetary shortfalls. Proceeds de- opportunity costs, we will seek to ensure Specific incentives for value added compared to other outsourcing centers rived from petroleum should be used for that these tools are utilized in such man- projects in forestry and food products PUP LEADER FRANCIS FONSECA like India, the affordability and availabil- the long-term benefit of the country not ner as to reduce the opportunity cost and including meats and grains. ity of real estate in Belize and, of course, for short-term consumption. the same time incentivize the grant of A 12 month suspension of stamp bandwidth. Rather than stifle innovation Offshore Sector- The offshore sec- loans to foreign exchange earning busi- duty on new loans for business expan- and entrepreneurship with a monopoliz- tor since its conception has grown leaps nesses. sion, capital good purchases, working FEBRUARY 20TH, 2012 ing B.T.L. that restricts the use of VOIP and bounds over the years. It is foreign Real estate- Real estate is another capital targeting job creation. and the internet, we will open up the exchange earning sector which pro- attractive investment product Belize has Review the business tax regime with internet, the information superhighway. vides high paying jobs to its employees. to offer. Government t-bills earn 2%. a view to facilitating the payment of busi- We will reduce the cost of bandwidth to Like tourism in many ways in the earlier With Central Bank’s reduction in the ness tax credits as a refund and recogniz- Back to Basics: Thinking Differently About Governance allow the I.C.T. sector to effectively com- years, most of its marketing has been savings rate floor, savings rate earned ing the inherent inequity in the payment pare and compete with other outsourc- undertaken solely by the private sector. by pensioners and others are at all time of business taxes on losses. ing centers in Latin America. Of course, While the government has passed laws lows in or around 2%. Term deposits are Drive the exports of grains, pro- tional Economic Policy. escape its obligations or to op- this will mean VOIP for all of us as well. introducing new products and while it neither being accepted or being offered cessed food and non-traditional agricul- Belize has 8,867 square press competing private enter- We will work along with the private sec- has established an International Finan- at around 4%. Real estate prices on the tural exports by promoting a zero-rated miles or 5,674,880 acres of prise. To that end the appoint- tor with a view to establish e-commerce cial Services Commission to regulate other hand have historically shown it- GST platform for packaging and other land, 12 miles of territorial ment of all judicial and public and outsourcing parks in population and to market the sector, the Commis- self to generate abnormal rates of return. products used in the processing of these sea, 200 miles of exclusive officers who exercise authority centers such as Belize City, Belmopan, sion and the Government has done very Over the past few years, we have seen the export products. economic zone, untold mil- over business enterprises must Orange Walk and San Pedro. New in- little to market and promote this sector real estate market come to a virtual halt, lions of barrels of petroleum truly be independent. vestment incentive policies and laws will while collecting millions of US dollars in partly to do with the global economic The People’s Money and other valuable minerals be established to organize and encour- fees. Other jurisdictions with which Be- slowdown but also in part because of With discretion there is power and and the skill and ingenuity Investment requires cer- age investment in this sector as well. Our lize competes in this area, for example, our own doing. The Lands Registry when power corrupts. To tackle corruption, of an over 130,000 strong la- tainty. The next PUP Govern- educational system will be enhanced the Cayman Islands, the British Virgin the U.D.P. took office was virtually shut which in turn reduces cost and ease of bor force. It has geographic ment will enact a FOREIGN throughout up to and through the ter- Islands and Seychelles consistently send down for almost a year. This dealt a crip- doing business as well as restores confi- proximity to and shares the INVESTMENT AND PROMO- tiary level to properly train and bring their government representatives trek- pling blow to the real estate business in dence in our laws and the economy, we English language with the TION ACT which will provide skill and expertise to our population in king across the globe to promote their Belize. The Registry is now more bureau- will take a page out of the play book of wealthiest country on earth. clarity and survive successive the information and communications offshore sector and or otherwise to ne- cratic and inefficient than ever. More- the iconic former Singaporean prime It has other large markets in regimes. Under this Act a net technology field. This will ultimately gotiate tax treaties and the like. The over, on sale of real estate in Belize, you minister Lee Kuan Yu by taking legisla- its immediate vicinity and it benefit “test” will be applied to mean jobs not only in terms of telemar- offshore sector will be treated as what it now have to pay 5% stamp duty, 12.5% on tive measures to eliminate discretion has inherited the preferred determine: keting but also in more high paying areas is, a foreign exchange earning business. general sales tax. Not surprising, invest- through the ranks of the public sector up and familiar English com- the effect of the invest- such as software development, network In this regards, it will get the support of ment in real estate has slowed signifi- to the Minister and replace with eligibil- mon law legal system. To ment on economic activity in design and systems management. With the government. It will not get taxed any cantly. To maximize the opportunity that ity standards. maximize economic growth, Belize; our other comparative advantages as less favourably than those international real estate offers to our economy, we will A comprehensive review of the pub- we need to competently and the degree of participation mentioned, this sector will undoubtedly competitors with which it competes and reduce the cost of investing in real estate. lic sector will be undertaken to identify, efficiently maximize the use by Belizeans in the business in become one of the leading employers in certainly not less favourably than other This includes minimizing the bureau- consolidate and or eliminate unneces- of all these resources and question; Belize. foreign exchange earning businesses in cracy, the turn around time, improving sary bureaucratic processes with a view comparative advantages. the effect of the invest- Agriculture- As the global economy Belize. Perhaps even more importantly, efficiency in handling real estate trans- to improving efficiency and the ease of Creating the enabling en- ment on productivity, effi- begins to rebound, commodity prices in- we will collaborate with the private off- actions and re-engineering the tax struc- doing business in Belize. vironment for private sector led ciency, technological develop- crease. Agriculture will continue to be a shore sector to aggressively market and ture to incentivize real estate develop- One of the most hurtful things for Ladies and Gentlemen, what I want to do to- move Belize forward. economic growth means not ment, product innovation and primary area of focus for development support the sector internationally. ment rather than real estate speculation. ordinary people is seeing ministers, their day is share with you my vision for how I think Getting back to the basics only pursuing tax policies which product variety in Belize; and foreign exchange earnings as well as Financial Sector- In part because close advisers and government officials Belize should be governed and how I would like What do I mean by getting back to the ba- encourage instead of discour- the effect of the invest- for food security. Earmarked funds for of the economic slowdown and loss of IMMEDIATE ACTION: BELIZE jetting around the world, driving expen- to lead Belize if given the opportunity. sics? When I use that phrase, I’m thinking,for ex- age investment in Belize but ment on competition; agriculture will be used to enhance infra- confidence in the economy, the financial EMERGENCY EMPLOYMENT PRO- sive SUVs with no limits on fuel spend- While I will share with you specific initiatives ample, about: also restoring confidence in the the compatibility of the in- structure for agriculture rather than for sector has taken its hits. Non-performing GRAM-(BEEP) ing while they literally have to live from and ideas on key sectors of the economy, this Ensuring that our hospitals have essential economy of Belize. The private vestment with national, indus- politically driven non-agriculture related loan ratios have risen to abnormally high There is need for urgent and im- hand to mouth. should not be taken as any kind of detailed policy medicines and good administration; sector must be confident that trial, economic and cultural projects. The D.F.C. and other public fi- levels under the current administration. mediate action in respect of job cre- We’ve actually got it backwards. statement. Consider it more as a statement of Providing accessible educational facilities to the Government will always act policies; and nancial institutions will certainly play a With new draconian rules having been ation. Analysis of the 2010 census re- Going into government should mean what my philosophical moorings are; the beliefs all Belizeans through the tertiary level; to secure and not undermine the contribution to Belize’s much larger role in providing cheaper recently introduced by the Central Bank, veals that the unemployment rate is accepting five years of self-sacrifice be- I hold that would inform my approach to policy- Coming to a sober, realistic assessment of our the private ownership of prop- ability to compete globally. financing to farmers. The D.F.C. doesn’t the financial sector without any action 23.1% or some 30,000 unemployed. To cause you are public-minded and in- making for Belize. capability to effectively combat crime and secure erty in Belize. The Government need to be converted into a commer- being taken will shift away from produc- properly tackle unemployment, we spired to make a difference. It shouldn’t Where Belize is our borders from incursion then enlisting help must immediately act to cir- Let us look at a few spe- cial bank. It needs to serve its role as a tive sector lending into consumer and will need to create a public employ- be a business and an opportunity to live I start by making three observations which from countries that are able to assist us. cumscribe the circumstances cific sectors: development bank and reduce its lend- residential lending. While interest rates ment agency-Jobs Center. This jobs high off tax payers’ money for five years. I’m sure are shared by many Belizeans: Ensuring that we have good basic roads and in which private property can The Tourism Sector- A ing rates to give farmers the chance to should come down given that rates in- Center will have several roles and 1. A cap should be put on all gov- Firstly, generation after generation of Beliz- clean reliable public ground transport systems compulsorily be taken in the special customized tourism build and grow rather than stifle them ternationally are near or at 0%, lending purposes including: ernment international travel. Only the eans has been told that Belize has great potential, before aspiring to 4-lane highways; public interest in Belize in order investment incentives law will to death from the very start. To further to the productive sector will not come Acting as a skills registry most essential travels should be ap- but we seem unable to unlock that potential. Creating an enabling environment for sus- to forever prevent the taking of be established to reduce the assist farmers annually exposed to hur- down in tandem. If not addressed, the fi- Providing job search services proved and budgeted for. People should Secondly, election after election, govern- tainable economic development. private property in this country cost of investing in tourism in ricane or other natural disasters, we will nancial sector will be effectively incentiv- Providing workforce development know how much of their money is being ments have frustrated our hopes and disappoint- Keeping the existing cities and towns we have at the expense of national eco- Belize. Particular focus will be lobby with multilateral institutions like ized to lend to the very sectors that drain services thru education, training and ca- spent on international travel, who is go- ed our expectations. Political interests consis- clean and organized before aspiring to build new nomic interests in the pursuit given to facilitate growth in the World Bank to create a fund for the foreign exchange and at the same time reer pathway programs. ing where and for what purpose. tently trump the national interest. cities like Mahogany Heights. of personality politics or to pro- target areas identified in a na- procurement of hurricane and disaster effectively disincentivized to lend to the This jobs center will in effect serve as 2. Government officials who use Thirdly, Belize simply cannot afford to lose Relationship with Private Sector mote political interests. tional tourism strategy plan. insurance for our farmers whether they sectors that generate foreign exchange both a data center and a complementary government vehicles merely to get to another decade; if we do not place our country As I see it, if governments of Belize are over- We must also act to ensure This of course will include may be in Corozal or Toledo, whether earnings and employment. These new market maker between the prospective and from work do not need their own firmly on the path to economic development and whelmed just dealing with providing the most that in those instances where Ambergris Caye and Placen- they produce banana or papaya. rules will also have the spiraling effect of employer and employee. It will identify government vehicles and fuel. Contract progress now, our legacy to future generations of essential services to its people, then government nationalizations are justifiably cia but will target other areas Petroleum & Other Minerals- In further flooding the already depressed the unemployed, their skill level and with the private sector to provide a small Belizeans may be a Belize that is a failed state. needs to: undertaken that persons de- for growth as well. Marketing many ways, since the first commercial market with additional foreclosure sales other attributes, efficiently place those fleet of well maintained buses exclusive- Problem-Solving, not Personality Poli- 1. Focus on its core functions: delivery of prived of property are promptly through collaborative efforts discovery of oil in Belize, the petroleum which will drive down the price of real who have the requisite skills already in ly for government workers. Only pub- tics reliable, quality, affordable public services; compensated. To that end there amongst the Government, sector has been a learning process. From estate thereby causing more foreclo- demand and train others with a view to lic officers who have field work around I don’t believe that we are consigned to that 2. View the private sector not as a source of should be no compulsory acqui- B.T.B. and the private sector the U.D.P. government, we have certainly sures and thereupon further depressing meet and supply the requisite skills be- the country or whose official duties le- fate. I would like to lead a movement for change ever-increasing taxes to fund sprawling govern- sition of property in this coun- will be significantly more - or learned what not to do. Crude oil as we the real estate market. These rules will ing or to be demanded in the context of gitimately require a government “ride” that puts Belize squarely on the path to progres- ment projects and ambitions, but as the sector try from any person regardless ganized and targeted. We will all know is a major foreign exchange be revisited to more properly align with the overall national economic develop- should have their own vehicles. sive growth and development by finally casting that holds the key to economic development by of political or other persuasion solve the cruise port impasse to earner for Belize. However, it is also the policy of economic growth through ment policy. The jobs center will not wait 3. Remove extra layers of bureau- aside personality politics and adopting a prob- creating the enabling environment for the private without there having been first enable this sub-sector of tour- a non-renewable resource. Great care strategic incentives to foreign exchange for you to come to it, it will look for you. cracy by doing away with municipal bod- lem-solving, solutions approach to governing. sector to attract and undertake investment, grow voted and allocated sufficient ism to sustainably develop and must be therefore given to maximize the earning sectors. Moreover, currently the By getting people back to work, we maxi- ies or departments that create expense So where do we begin? businesses and create employment; funds to cover the costs of the prosper alongside the over- proceeds therefrom and to how the pro- banking system is so structured as to mize the benefits from the most valu- especially if an existing government de- The next government we elect must have 3. Reduce its bureaucracy and bureaucratic acquisition. night tourism product. ceeds of this non-renewable resource is skew lending at cheaper rates and lower able yet most under-utilized resource partment can carry out that function. demonstrated that it has a credible plan to find spending and enhance its regulatory and enforce- Apart from compulsory Information & Commu- handled. To maximize proceeds, instead closing costs to non-residents engaging our country has to offer, our people. By 4. The Auditor General and house solutions to our social and economic problems. ment capacity. acquisitions, the government nications Technology- Belize of private back-room deals with politi- in foreign exchange earning businesses focusing on sustainable employment, we committees must be allowed to do their This means setting aside grandiose plans and un- To put it concisely: I believe that the private must lead by example and begin already has all the essential cal cronies who in turn sell their block rather than to residents of Belize. These assure sustainable economic develop- work. And so too must the Contractor realistic goals and settling down to the basics of sector must be facilitated by government to gen- to take full responsibility for its tools of production necessary licenses to make the profit that the gov- laws will be addressed with a view to ment and growth. General. governing. erate wealth and profits , while government must own commercial transactions. It to enable an immensely suc- ernment would have otherwise made, ensure that residents will enjoy no less In this regard there are some im- It also means that leaders must suppress egos use its fair share of taxes to provide the essential must be that when the Govern- cessful information and com- a transparent bidding process in accor- favourable costs and rates than non-resi- mediate policy decisions I would be pre- How do we Make Governments and the urge to settle scores against the opposing public services in health, education, personal se- ment signs a commercial con- munications technology sector dance with known international norms dent investors in foreign exchange earn- pared to advance for your consumption, Listen political party and focus on the task of building curity, infrastructure and to exponentially expand tract that it is beyond question particularly in the area of near will be implemented in the auctioning of ing businesses. Furthermore, the current analysis and discussion. This is essential For close to 15 years now, political re- Belize. its capacity to impact the social ills of the country. that the Government will hon- shore outsourcing for North blocks. This will ensure that the govern- manner in which the Central Bank con- because the next Government of Belize form has been at the centre of political I have enough experience in government – as Restoring confidence in the economy of our its commercial obligations. American businesses that can ment maximizes its take from the outset. ducts its monetary policy creates an op- has to hit the ground running signaling debates in Belize, yet successive govern- well as in Opposition – to know that what we have Belize In business government must not only attract substantial A petroleum fund was established under portunity cost to banks of approximately clearly that Belize is ready and open for ments seem to go off on their own agen- to do is get the basics right. If we can accomplish How do we restore confidence in the Be- be true to its own words and not foreign and local investment the last administration for the manage- 1.25% per annum on total deposit liabili- business. das once comfortably in office. There is that we would have laid the proper foundation to lizean economy? It starts with a Smart Na- seek to utilize powers of state to and generate foreign exchange ment of the proceeds derived. This U.D.P. ties. Not surprisingly, the banks seek to Specific incentives on the table for Continued on page 12 12 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 ADDRESS TO BELIZE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUP LEADER FRANCIS FONSECA

Continued from page 11 der and violence have a direct correlation within Belize pose a serious threat to the organized crime. need for urgent meaningful reforms: to rising unemployment and downturns security and welfare of the nation. An independent Citizens Com- The P.U.P. will seek to enshrine in the in the economy; The services of law enforcement ex- plaints Bureau with necessary legal Constitution a Referendum for any pro- Respect for the Rule of Law- the perts from abroad will be utilized as advi- authority will be appointed to address posed amendment to our Constitution P.U.P. will uphold the Constitution as the sors and consultants without prejudice to allegations of abuse by security forces. which in any way undercuts or degrades Supreme Law of Belize and govern with our sovereignty and in practical acknowl- The sanctity of citizenship must be the fundamental rights and freedoms of respect for the equal rights of all. Elected edgement of the enormous resources restored. With this in mind the P.U.P. the people. officials including the Prime Minister available to transnational criminals and will appoint an Independent Commis- The P.U.P. will reduce the term of of- and the Cabinet of Ministers must real- organized crime. sion to review Immigration policy and fice to four years and there will be a fixed ize that they are servants of people and The Criminal Code will be amended laws and implement its recommenda- date for elections in every four year cycle. behave accordingly. No one is above the with a “stand your ground” provision for tions. A law will be enacted to stop the We believe that four years is an adequate law. The arrogant abuse of power, corrup- citizens to be justified in the defence of issuance of nationality certificates (na- period for the electorate to be able to tion and any unjust enrichment in public their home to use all necessary force to tionalization) three months before na- judge the performance or lack thereof of life will be dealt with by the full force of repel any intruder. tional and municipal elections. their elected representatives and to make the law. Justice- the reform of the Justice sys- I acknowledge that I have thrown an informed decision whether to renew Strengthening Law Enforcement- tem continues to be a pressing issue. The a lot at you today, but I have sought to the mandate or vote for a change. The the P.U.P. acknowledges that a new ap- independence of the Judiciary and the do so with a sense of purpose, direction fixed date for general elections will en- proach to policing to effectively reduce integrity of Judges and Magistrates must and urgency. There is no time to waste! hance greater public trust and participa- the crime rate must be based on the citi- be jealously safeguarded and upheld. I offer to you today a Government tion in the democratic process. zens having trust and confidence in the The new P.U.P. administration will that will be engaged, focused and com- The P.U.P. is committed to an elected police. Effective response mechanisms undertake a comprehensive programme petent. As the leader of that Govern- Senate. will be implemented to protect life and to modernize the court system so as to ment I will at all times be prepared to The composition of the Elections and property, ensuring that more police offi- achieve greater efficiency, speedier tri- sit with you, work with you, listen to you Boundaries Commission will be reviewed cers are on the beat, more police booths als and more effective disposal of cases and learn from you. Working togeth- to ensure that persons of high integ- properly manned and working with with a goal of eliminating the backlog er we can put Belize back to work and rity and impartiality are appointed. The neighbourhood crime watch groups, of cases which makes a mockery of the make Belize work for all Belizeans. Chairperson should be appointed with tourist police and special constabulary. Administration of Justice. My vision for Belize is one in which the approval of the leaders of all parties The use of security cameras in crime sen- The reform of the prison service our children are born into strong func- represented in the House of Representa- sitive areas will be deployed. must continue. Convicted prisoners tional families, receive a quality educa- tives. The Representation of the People’s The Gang Suppression Unit (G.S.U.) must be securely held. Measures to re- tion which equips them with the knowl- Act will be revised to ensure free and fair has lost the confidence of the Belizean habilitate prisoners especially first time edge, skills, and attitudes required to elections and to avoid such abuses and people and will be replaced with a more offenders must be balanced with pro- find or create employment and lead lives irregularities as we see taking place with effective anti-violence unit. grams for them to engage in productive of dignity while raising a family and pre- the mass granting of instant citizenship The P.U.P. will give full support to work. Community service as alterna- paring for a comfortable retirement. without proper verification and the reg- a reorganized and motivated police de- tive sentencing will be established on This must be our shared vision. If istering of many such persons on the vot- partment with high professional stan- a more organized basis with proper Belize is to grow and develop, all of us, ers list at addresses where they do not and dards, good public relations, better supervision, especially for persons con- must be committed to a strong Beliz- never did reside. trained and equipped with improved victed of minor offences such as posses- ean economy and society grounded in A Freedom of the Press Law will conditions of service led by a competent sion of a small quantity of marijuana. credible, practical plans and solutions guarantee free speech and protect whis- Belizean Commissioner of Police who The Belize Defence Force has a piv- to the social and economic challenges tle-blowers who expose abuse, acts of commands the respect of officers and the otal role to play in national security. A we face. corruption and waste of resources in pub- community at large. P.U.P. government will strengthen its My Party and I are prepared to lic office. The Forensic Science programme capability both human and institu- lead Belize on this new, exciting path. The Prevention of Corruption Act will be made fully operational to enable tional to better patrol our borders to I ask for your support not only for 2007 will be reinforced and the Integrity D.N.A. testing and an up to date ballistic prevent and apprehend incursions into March 7th, but more importantly on in Public Life legislation will be given registry. our territory of persons engaged in ille- March 8th when the work begins. teeth to sanction non-compliance with We will wage an aggressive campaign gal farming and harvesting of xate and Thank you and may God continue the requirement for disclosure of income, against drug traffickers, recognizing that other forestry products. to Bless our beloved Belize. assets and liabilities by elected public of- the transshipment and importation of The B.D.F. will also be kept engaged ficials. cocaine and the proliferation of firearms alongside the police in the fight against FF/2/2012 The P.U.P. will introduce Campaign Finance legislation to grapple with the vexing problem of money in politics dominating and driving the system. Op- position parties including third parties such as the P.N.P., and V.I.P. will have ac- cess to fair, tax payer funded campaign funds.

Crime, Security and Justice Allow me as well to say a few words about the vexing but critically important issues of Crime, Security and Justice. I readily concede that, for me, the most dif- ficult challenge facing us is how to con- tain crime and arrest that swelling of the ranks of at-risk and unemployed youth. In recent years, Belizeans have lived under the threat of violence and crimi- nality on a scale unprecedented in the modern independent Belize. Law-abid- ing citizens live in fear. Whenever anoth- er murder or robbery or home invasion takes place, people’s sense of security is negatively impacted; investment and eco- nomic growth is stymied. When so many of these crimes go undetected and where the conviction rate of accused criminals is so appallingly low, there is a deep-seated distrust of the police and the system of justice. To effectively address the scourge of violent crime, the P.U.P. will pursue a 4 step approach to national security: Fixing the economy- is the first step towards reducing crime: robberies, mur- SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 13 PUP DELIVERS vote DAVID HOY DAVID A NEW VISION for Caribbean Shores is going the future believe I always And I also past. than the to be better in that. a role I have that believe can do better. we Together 14 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent CAMPBELL CARES! POLITICS JOB CREATION AND ECONOMIC STABILIZATION

By William (Mike) Campbell BRS

(Editor’s note: Mike Campbell is a de- clared independent candidate seeking to become the area representative for the Be- lize Rural South constituency. His views, opinions, et cetera are his own and not VOTE INDEPENDENT VOTE necessarily those of The Independent.) Unemployment, foreclosures and WILLIAM (MIKE) CAMPBELL business closures are reported at record FOR AREA REPRESENTATIVE highs but the GOB shows a growth rate of 2.5% or more. Overnight tourism arrivals are at near record levels but the major- FOR BETTER GOVERNMENT: ity in that industry sees the industry in a • BRS should become the 7th District of Belize having all government offices and services located in San definite slump. It would appear from this Pedro and receiving our share of each of the Ministry budgets. and other indicators that our economy • Redistrict BRS to become 2 constituencies giving more equal representation. is far from stable and is definitely not in • Divide San Pedro into 6 wards with each ward electing a Town Councilor. recovery. We have also reached the point ly one worker in five is a government • Area Rep office should have departments to deal with all government issues. Immigration and work papers, Social Security problems, assistance for small businesses and business start up should be avail- where the government payroll is around employee based on around 75,000 able at all times from the staff. actual work force and approximately 40% of our total economy. The signifi- • Social Security accounts should be usable to pay hospital costs regardless of cause. Social Security cance of this cannot be underestimated 14,000 government workers whose should establish an unemployment assistance scheme to help good people who have lost their jobs. The if we are to avoid becoming the Greece of pay makes up 40% of our recurrent Social Fund has about $400 Million of workers money that is being misused. Central America. We must address the budget. Many of these government FOR LAND REFORM: issue of the size and cost of our govern- employees are intelligent and well • Everyone should have equal opportunity to get land. Any land that is available for sale must be adver- ment regardless of how uncomfortable it educated but are not employed in the tised so all have an equal chance. critical area of expanding our tax base. • Lots should be given only to those who need them. No government lots should be resold until some- may be. With each additional program or thing is built on the property. Party members get multiple lots that they hold for profit while others get Initiative the problem worsens. We sim- Possibly by economic expansion poli- nothing. ply cannot continue to expand the gov- cies we can lure some of these govern- • There is no excuse for assigning the same lot twice or taking someone’s lot to give to another. ernment or it will eventually consume ment employees into private sector • A new community should be developed in the Basil Jones area of North Ambergris Caye to allow our the economy of the country. Politicians where they can use their knowledge children to have a chance to make a future. There should be land available on North Ambergris Caye are very reluctant to address this dirty and expertise to help expand the tax for agricultural use to help our economy by growing food. word of Retrenchment but the need to base. FOR MORE JOBS: reduce government expenditures is real Based upon a Sustainable Devel- • Establish Export Processing Zone for year around JOBS and apparent to all. opment Plan as I have proposed vari- • Open North Ambergris Caye for Agriculture and a new Town with International Airport. Job creation must be at the heart ous industries could be targeted for • Revitalize tourism by promoting San Pedro/Caye Caulker as a separate GREEN destination, adding value to our product. of any economic recovery plan. Private development by direct government • Give Municipal works contracts to residents of San Pedro first. sector jobs, which are the only ones that investment into the production side • count, are created by either expanding of our economy. Qualified govern- Duty Free Fuel for Tour Companies and Guides existing businesses or by the opening ment employees could be offered the FOR BETTER ROADS: of new businesses. Infrastructure jobs opportunity to leave public sector and • Ministry of Works must establish a San Pedro office to engineer and execute road projects including San Mateo. are temporary and, unless the particular join the productive sector by operat- • Establish drains and culverts where necessary. project was designed to create or aid in ing these new industrial installations. • Use modern soil stabilization techniques to give hard, non-polluting, dust free roads without paving. the creation of permanent jobs, offer only A possible example would be inter- Sewer installations can be done later without heavy cost. short-term relief and represent resources locking the agriculture industry with • North Ambergris Caye must have a properly engineered road with drainage. that could have been used to create per- the aquaculture industry by manu- FOR BETTER SCHOOLS: facturing fish food from soybeans we manent jobs which must be our number • San Pedro needs a modern High School with all lab facilities and an expanded curriculum. The High one objective at this time. grow instead of being totally depen- School/ Education Center should also offer vocational training and technical education and courses in Job creation comes in small, medium dent on imported fish food. A joint living skills, childcare and parenting. and large. Small is the Mom and Pop venture agreement could be reached • San Pedro needs at least one more primary school immediately. store or small neighborhood business. with the employees of the installation • Schools must be free and mandatory through High School. Parents should only purchase uniforms and This goes to the very foundations of the to give ultimate ownership to private school supplies. economy. It has been proven that micro fi- sector. FOR BETTER POLICING: nancing works very efficiently in this type There is an assortment of oppor- • We must have well trained police officers that are well paid and are responsible to and are part of the community. They must have sufficient numbers and equipment and training to protect us properly. of job creation. It combats the capabilities tunities available to create successful • We must hire a Prosecuting Attorney who is a licensed attorney to help the police raise the conviction poverty by empowering the cottage in- industries based on processing fa- rate. dustries that are so important to us. Every cilities for our raw materials by using FOR BETTER HEALTH CARE: small business helps someone get along government funds and by giving ac- • Immediately establish emergency evacuation at night by installing emergency runway lights at Munici- and creates that person’s job and quite cess to the markets by way of our In- pal. possibly 2 or 3 others and has potential ternational Highway. $50Million dol- • Work toward 24/7 EMS with ambulance service then build a complete hospital. to grow and provide even more grassroots lars in the Toledo district could have FOR BETTER FIRE PROTECTION: economic impact. Large businesses em- created hundreds of permanent jobs • Immediately install fire hydrants in all areas that are served by BWS at intervals so the trucks can refill ploy large amounts of workers but always if properly used. Examples abound or pump from the hydrant. involve foreign companies. At this time we and each specific part of the country • Upgrade our equipment and training to cover future growth. are not highly regarded as a foreign invest- has resources that could be developed • Change building code so all homes can qualify for insurance ment venue as is evidenced by our declin- into job producing industries but this ing foreign investment numbers. Medium only becomes apparent in the context sized business expansion and micro fi- of a Sustainable Development Plan. nancing we can certainly fund internally The government must seek out these through government policies if the will is opportunities and fund them and WE NEED A BETTER SAN PEDRO! there. Our performance in these areas and adopt the Sustainable Development in controlling corruption will help restore Plan and give the green light for pri- VOTE MIKE CAMPBELL for the confidence of the foreign investor. vate sector to start to implement the Government is financed to a large ex- Infrastructure part of the Sustainable AREA REPRESENTATIVE tent by private sector in the form of taxes Development Plan for Belize as previ- we pay. The government is a nonproduc- ously presented. The only way out of ing sector of our economy that uses up a this mess is to work, work, work until 602-1616 SAN JUAN large amount our human resources. Near- we gone clear. SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 15

State Of The Arts: Youth Voices Ring Out

By Katie Usher filmmakers Kahlil Fantauzzi and Eli Voices Belize Last year January, I was privi- Fantauzzi who hosted a storytelling in January stat- leged to witness the launch of the and documentary workshop. The ed that: Youth Voice Belize at the Image Fac- workshop, I think, was excellent for I am Alive, tory in Belize City. The event was an the eager and talented young poets. a short film, immense success and featured some Not only were they given the oppor- was created very talented Belizean poets. The tunity to work with the filmmakers for the Youth powerful lyrics, which were creative- and learn basic techniques in pho- and Commu- ly moulded from everyday words, tography and film, but they were nity Trans- sailed so effortlessly from young able to view a documentary done by formation lips, pushed forwarded with a force Eli Fantauzzi which he filmed in El Project and which made us all stop and listen. Salvador just prior to his visit to Be- explores the Youth Voices Belize has been oper- lize. lives of South ating since then all over the country In connection with the same Side youths hosting film workshops, slam com- workshop, Willie Perdomo, the au- and the future petitions and open mic sessions. thor of “Nickel and Dimed”, was in- they desire. This project is a part of the Glob- vited to conduct a poetry reading se- This event will al Parish Project which is represent- ries. Perdomo did presentations in feature a short ed in Belize by Nyasha Laing. She Belize City, Belmopan and Dangriga. film screening, gave me some information which The young people who took part in youth perfor- gave me a deeper insight into what the workshops did a wonderful pre- mances, com- sentation in the Institute of Mexico munity testi- last August. This event, which was monials and emceed by the radiant energy of entertainment Nyabingi Price, featured original for all ages. The pieces of poetry from the youths, to event is part of mention a few memorable perform- a citywide ef- ers: Micah ‘Mighty Mic’ Goodin, Gi- fort to restore anni Martinez, Marika Zuniga and and bring life Williams Nduka and Willie Perdomo to the South himself. It was surely a treat to hear Side. Definitely the positive domino Belizean stories, dreams and experi- Youth Voices Belize has big plans effect of the Youth Voices Belize can ences expressed skilfully in the form for 2012 including public service an- be witnessed in the brainchild proj- poetry and spoken word. nouncement production training, ect A.R.M.E.D. of a Youth Voice par- After the summer camp, Youth mini poetry slams, and more short ticipant Micah “Mighty Mic” Good- Voices Belize continued filming es- film projects. The initiatives being in. A.R.M.E.D according to their pecially with their Southside Film proposed by Youth Voices Belize are facebook page is a tutoring club Project, doing outreach in schools definitely things that the youths can geared towards assisting students Youth Voices is all about: in Belize City, Orange Walk and look forward to. The Youth Voices who may not otherwise have access The Global Parish Project is a Belmopan. They have now estab- Belize offers a beautiful alternative to assistance. It states: ARMED en- non-profit, community-based orga- lished ties with Wesley College and to the crime, unemployment and visions a society in which all high nization dedicated to the production Muffles College. the general frustration which many school students will be competent, and cross-cultural sharing of docu- In January of this year, to cel- Belizean youths face daily. Here disciplined and able to make it mentary stories in Belize. Global ebrate their one year anniversary, youths have a forum to discuss their into any tertiary level educational Parish’s vision is to inspire a stronger Youth Voices Belize presented their ideas while garnering tools they can institution across the length and sense of identity among Belizeans by documentary film I am Alive. A use to express their views, emotions breadth of this nation. Academics nurturing the craft and appreciation press release sent out from Youth and art. Returning Mentorship, Education of documentary storytelling through and Discipline (ARMED), a non- film and related forms of cultural ex- profitable and non-governmental pression. YOUTH VOICES is a two- tutoring club located on SJCJC year community arts platform that campus provides individualized, contributes to the empowerment supplemental educational support and identity building of youth. Our to anyone in dire need of academic Word Power workshops and open remediation, maintenance and en- mic events provide a safe space for hancement. youth to develop writing and literacy For more information on the skills, and to speak out about their Youth Voices Belize, contact Steph- social experiences and the cultural anie Jimenez at 677-5571 or youth- realities that impact them. [email protected], or visit Surely the project has tried to their facebook page http://www. live up to these objectives. Last sum- facebook.com/pages/Youth-Voices- mer, Youth Voices Belize invited two Belize/139008712819770?ref=t. 16 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012

of San Pedro a Duty Free Zone. While tively with either party. He states that launching attacks on Mr. Campbell as much of the problem comes from only San Pedro noted above and attacks on Patty Arceo half of the Town working at a time and and Manuel Heredia Jr. for not filing fi- that we must all work together at the nancial reports as required by law, he same time to get the results we desire. admits to purchasing lots in San Mateo He states that if elected he will call for that were intended for those who are volunteers to serve on the committees Politics underprivileged claiming he intends to and make sure that the composition is live there when he retires to San Pedro in equitably distributed between the par- San Pedro Politics took back seat are not an independent country and are the immediate future in spite of his an- ties and independents in order to create to the Carnival Celebrations in San Pe- still subservient to England. nounced net worth of over $6 million. cooperation between both parties for dro with large groups of partiers painting William (Mike) Campbell’s nomi- Incumbent Manuel Heredia Jr. the good of BRS. He stated that all the any and everything in sight. Regardless nation for Area Representative of Belize points out his years of public service and candidates and parties have some good the campaigning did go on but not with Rural South was accepted by the Elec- his commitment to continue to help the ideas and he intends to use them all but the same fervor. Elections are good for tions and Boundaries Commission at 1:15 people of San Pedro as he has in the past. all other candidates are lacking in qualifi- the economy as the parties spend money. pm, Friday 17 February 2012 marking the He relies heavily on a party line support- cations and experience necessary to solve Overheard a happy young man in a red first time in the history of Belize that a ing all UDP candidates without excep- the problems of Belize Rural South. shirt celebrating that he had a job to Dual National has been accepted to run tion and calls attention to the economic In general all candidates agree on the march in two parades. Most campaign for public office. Mr. Campbell in a sepa- realities of having to work with what needs of San Pedro but only Mr. Camp- workers are paid employees and little can rate interview reminded all that we hold little is available during economic hard bell offers concrete realistic solutions to be judged from the size of the parades, up Barbados as a positive example and times. He promised a new government the problems such as street repair, job which were much smaller than in previ- arguably the best Prime Minister they school and a hospital as soon as the land creation, law enforcement and immedi- ous years. The election in San Pedro is ever had was David Thompson who was is identified and agrees with the concept ate healthcare needs such as emergency markedly different this year as the two a British born Dual National. Unfortu- of community policing in the very near medical evacuation at night. Mr. Lopez parties are not hurling insults and more nately for Barbados and the Caribbean future. He stresses how he has tried to suggested we go on a “shifts “system to at each other as has always been the case. Mr. Thompson succumbed to pancreatic help all he could with land and necessary alleviate crowding in the schools without This is noted by all and may signify a po- cancer in October of 2010 and that Belize but always legal paperwork. having to build more schools. litical maturity descending on the Island. needs to take a more sophisticated and Ex Rep Patty Arceo also stresses her This election looks to be very close Friday 17 February on Good Morning informed view of the world and our place years of service to San Pedro and calls at- with still undecided voters weighing San Pedro there was heated discussion of in it. tention to the amount of improvements their options. Belize Rural South should Mike Campbell’s eligibility to run while Mr. Campbell unveiled his flag of that happened under her 5 years as op- be very interesting with one Independent holding British Citizenship. Mr. Camp- Brown and Beige and noted how it rep- posed to Jr’s 9 year run as Area Rep of candidate and candidates from three bell informed all of his history of legal resented the unity of the colors of the BRS. She emphasizes her ability to ac- parties contesting the election for Area opinions on the subject and of his con- people of Belize and how we should all complish this again and the obvious Rep. There is one Independent candidate sultations with the British High Com- be united for our common upliftment as benefits to San Pedro and Caye Caulker. as well as candidates from both major mission and their legal opinion that his we are something much better and more She stresses the need for social programs parties for Mayor. A strong Independent candidacy was legal. This touched off a powerful when we are united than when and sports including better facilities in movement in the traditions of the San firestorm of borderline personal attacks we stand apart. Mr. Campbell stated that San Pedro. She stresses the neglect that Pedro United Movement of the 80’s mak- on Mr. Campbell and British Bashing by his color would be Brown and urged all San Pedro has had for the last 9 years ing its presence felt. VIP Bobby Lopez and Dan Hector Silva to vote. under Manuel Heredia Jr and how the Ramon Reyes Jr. , an unsuccessful by telephone where both claimed that by The campaigns can be characterized PUP is the answer to the problems of PUP candidate for Standard Bearer for their interpretation of the constitution as follows: San Pedro. Belize Rural South has thrown his sup- Mr. Campbell should not be allowed to The new comer VIP Chairman Bob- Mr. Campbell stresses his qualifica- port behind Manuel Heredia Jr. and now run or sit and his doing so means that we by Lopez offered the idea to make all tions and proven ability to work effec- wears a red shirt. SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 17

(The Independent is happy to debut a new feature “San Pedro Beat” which will pro- vide a weekly synopsis of the going-ons in La Isla Bonita. Readers should also note that The Independent is available for sale at the following newsstands: Ritchie’s Supermarket, Caye Mart, SuperBuy, Island Supermarket, Lourdes Store, Rock’s Center, Public’s Grocery, Marina’s Store, Milo Center and San Juan Internet.)

Harrison “Bin” Jacobs …has US financial recovery. Mr. Moreno the norm in San Pedro. Mr. Martinez Chan. been charged with the murder of stressed the IDB’s commitment to had been detained about a week and Eduardo Arceo…the owner of Francis Alexander Figuerroa Carde- infrastructural and education proj- a half previous to this incident after Rose’s Grill and Bar in Caye Caulker nas on November 28th of last year ects that increase our growth capaci- erratic behavior led to him being se- has recently been awarded an Inter- in the San Juan Area of San Pedro ties. Mr. Moreno stressed the need dated at the Polyclinic. Police claim national Catering Award from The Town. “Sometime before 5:40AM on for planning in regards to climate there were no signs of violence upon Trade Leaders Club in Madrid Spain Sunday, November 28th, police were change, as this region will be among the body, which has been transported at the 37th International Award For called to the corner of Seaweed and the most affected areas in the world as to KHMH. The police stated he was Tourist, Hotel and Catering Industry. Sand Piper Streets in the San Juan the climate continues to change and taken into custody and placed in the Rose’s is an excellent seafood restau- area of San Pedro Town. There, Po- its effects become more apparent. In cell where he caused a disturbance, rant on Caye Caulker and certainly lice observed a dark skinned person an interview Mr. Moreno stated that when they next checked on him he worth a try on your next visit. of Creole descent, leaning in a sitting Belize was paying 1.5% for 25 years on was found to be dead. Blayd Christopher Vernon…is position on a blue concrete fence with its loans but the technical services the proud winner of the Zone 5 Spell- what appeared to be a single gunshot provided by the bank were more im- Caye Caulker News: ing Bee. This is the first time in 17 wound to the head. The man who was portant than the cost of the loan. Melissa Chan… recently gradu- years a Caye Caulker student has won known to police as Bejon Wade was Miguel Martinez… age 26 was ated from the University of Belize the spelling bee. Chelsea Rodriguez later identified as 20 year old Francis found dead in his holding cell at the with a Bachelor’s Degree in Educa- took fourth place. Congratulations to Alexander Figuerroa Cardenas. Mr. San Pedro Police Station Tuesday tion. Congratulations to Melissa Blayd and Chelsa. Cardenas is of a Belize City address, morning, 21 February 2012 after be- but was reportedly working on Am- ing detained by police earlier in the bergris Caye.” Mr. Jacobs has been day for disorderly conduct in an in- remanded until his next appearance toxicated state. Mr. Martinez was scheduled for 19 April 2012. found handcuffed and in his boxers. Inter-American Development Reportedly his pants were found in Bank… held its 26th annual Meet- front of the station. Relatives claim ing of the Governors of the Central that witnesses saw the police beating American Isthmus and the Domini- Miguel in front of the station before can Republic at Coco Beach on North taking him inside and that is why his Ambergris Caye. President Mr. Luis pants were found outside. Word on Alberto Moreno and Acting Prime the street is that the cell was emptied Minister Gaspar Vega gave opening of other prisoners who were moved to statements stressing the region’s vul- a different cell and Miguel was placed nerability to the economic turmoil in in the cell and beaten to death. Po- Blayd was mobbed by his school mates on his return to the Caye Caulker from San Pedro Town following the contest. Europe and the slower than expected lice brutality charges are becoming 18 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 SUNDAY February 26, 2012 The Independent 19

The police must be part of the and posturing will not win the war. CONCERNING CRIME: community as well as answerable We need well-trained, well paid, law to the community they serve in or- enforcement professionals working der to be effective. Police from top directly with the community. A SOLUTION EXISTS! to bottom should be hired and fired I notice one of the San Pedro by the particular community they neighborhood watches has hired By Mike Campbell officers around the country has been serve based on their performance. armed guards and they are proving The crime situation in Belize our downfall. The preconception We should have complete say as to effective. If we cannot control our has escalated to the point where it was that officers would become cor- who is policing our community and own police in the future all the neigh- has become the major topic in many rupted if allowed to stay in one place if they do not perform they must be borhood watches will employ armed conversations and personal safety for too long. Of course this assumes replaced. Becoming a police officer guards for their neighborhoods. The has become a prime concern for that both the officers and the com- is a commitment to the community. next step will be untrained militias many. Crime prevention, detection munity they serve are basically dis- A police officer should love his com- and private police forces. It is much and successful prosecution require honest. That should never be a prob- munity and regard the job as a per- better that we take control of our close cooperation between well- lem with a well-trained officer. manent position. Ideally they will police and take back our towns and trained police officers and the com- Our police are never from the share the love of community that we country from the criminal elements munity they serve. The community community they are assigned to and all have and be motivated to do the who are attacking our society with must trust the police to be honest are usually forced to live in substan- best job. We have no opportunity to impunity. and fair and the police must trust dard conditions. Having no real ties vet our police and know little about Any thought that we are not ca- the community to be supportive and to the community they are regarded who is policing us. Officers who get pable of or responsible enough to helpful. The cooperation between as outsiders and do not receive the in trouble in one way or the other handle our own police without help police and the community and the full cooperation of the community are simply shuffled around to vari- from Belmopan is ridiculous. Bel- level of training of the police officers they serve. Knowing they will be ous unsuspecting communities of- mopan cannot control crime within are the two most important factors transferred in a few years there is no ten with tragic results. Whose fault the police force, much less our crime in the effective policing of the com- motivation to help the community is that? epidemic. The buck in the towns munity. and further they have no apparent If the police were answerable should stop at the Chief Police Of- Throughout the Nation there is responsibility for their actions to directly to the people of the com- ficer and the Mayor and all police a distinct disconnect between the the community, only to the chain munities they serve we would all be officers should be hired by the com- community and the police. This is of command. The result is that the able to work together and bring our munity they serve. If the Chief can- true in spite of the obvious fact that community does not trust the police crime epidemic under control. The not perform or control his officers the police are paid by the taxes of the and the police do not show respect infection has spread from Belize City we must replace him and anyone community to provide protection for the community. They are trained to infect all the towns. Our elected else that is not giving 100% in our and order necessary in a Civil Soci- to resist attempts at friendship with community leaders do not have the fight against crime. Under this sys- ety. Police activities, or lack of, often residents as it makes them suppos- power to demand performance from tem of community policing, police form the butt of jokes by children edly more susceptible to corrup- our police even though it is our mon- brutality would be rare and crooked and teens who let their disrespect tion. The result is an unmotivated ey that pays them. This is an unac- cops would be dealt with quickly. We be known at an early age. Indeed improperly trained police force that ceptable situation. The trips from should not be taking direction from respect must be earned and it is dif- receives little support from the pub- Belmopan by various senior police, Belmopan as to how to proceed in ficult for a parent to instill respect lic in general. This antagonistic re- meetings with the various business our individual communities. There for the law when it is sometimes dif- lationship between police and com- groups and marches against crime are many differences in our indi- ficult to respect those who are paid munity is exploited by the criminal are ineffective in an ever-widening vidual communities that necessitate to enforce it. This is truly a serious element. spiral of violence. Starch, polish different approaches to achieve- ef problem and is no longer a laughing fective law enforcement. matter. Our leaders have proven unable To move forward we must admit to meet the crisis and we the people the obvious fact that the Belize Po- GG police driver stole First of Belize must step up to the plate lice Force in its present form is not and take responsibility for our own capable of dealing with the rampant Lady’s ATM card and withdrew security. It is time we fought back. violent crime that is shaking the very I am confident we can do a much foundations of our Nation. Convic- better job of managing our security tion rates are abysmal and escapes thousands from account! than those currently charged with from custody are common. The Thursday, February 23, 2012 totaling $7,450.00. Police found that task. As it is criminals laugh at community has lost faith in the po- BELIZE CITY – Police appear the ATM card inside PC Mar- the police and the courts and whose lice to protect them from the worst to have an air tight case against tinez’s black Toyota 4-Runner fault is that? Without dramatic elements of our society as they are one of their own, police constable bearing license plate CY-C- changes we will not move forward. paid to do. Crime is a community #564 Rayon Martinez assigned to 29862. problem and can only be dealt with chauffer the Governor General, Martinez was arrested on by the community. The root of this Dr. Colville Young. Tuesday, February 21, 2012 and problem lies within the very precon- Police set up a sting to catch slapped with twelve counts of ceptions that have formed police the culprit who had been with- theft charge. CLASSIFIEDS policy and organization for all these drawing from Lady Norma Martinez was arraigned at Young’s Scotia Bank account via the Belmopan Magistrate Court LIQUOR LICENCE NOTICE years. We have never grown from a Notice is hereby given that the ATM machine. where he was offered bail which colonial police force to a commu- George Ramirez is applying Lady Young reported to po- he met. His case has been set to nity-based police force. The Belize for Publican Special Liquor Li- lice that her daughter had alerted commence on March 30, 2012. Police Force is an extension of the cense to be operated at “Frogs her on Monday, December 5, 2011 “The Police Department colonial system where the Governor Point Restaurant”, Hopkins of some unauthorized withdraw- stands resolute in enforcing its retained all power and communities Village, Stann Creek District als from her account. After mak- zero tolerance on crime espe- were not allowed to police them- under the Intoxicating Liquor selves furthering their dependence ing inquiries, Lady Young re- cially from within its ranks,” the Licensing Ordinance Revised on the colonial government and called that the last time she had Belize Police Department says. Edition 2000. making them much easier to con- used her ATM card was on July But police officials may trol. Our very small population was 28, 2011 at the Scotia Bank Bel- need to take another look at Notice is hereby given that also a major factor. mopan Branch. She also recalled how they assign officers to the Gliria Mendoza is applying for This structure and long estab- that PC Rayon Martinez who was duty of chauffeuring and pro- Restaurant Liquor License to lished policies in the police force are assigned driver for the Governor tecting Belize’s head of state. be operated at “El Talisman“, primarily responsible for the discon- General assisted her in making Two previous officers who have 118 Barrack Road Belize City, nect between the police and those the withdrawal. Since then, Lady taken up that assignment have under the Intoxicating Liquor they are paid to serve and protect. Young reported, she has not been run afoul of the law. In Marti- Licensing Ordinance Revised Without effective cooperation be- able to locate her card. nez’ case, though, he is the first Edition 2000. tween community and police crime Twelve withdrawals were al- officer we know of to be accused control will never be possible. The legedly made from the account of stealing from his charges. ADVERTISE IN THE long established policy of rotating INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER 20 The Independent SUNDAY February 26, 2012 Grenada/Taiwan debt dispute threatens island airport