Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 1

NO. 3438 BELIZE CITY, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2021 (20 PAGES) $1.00 Barrow appears before Commission of Inquiry

BELIZE CITY, Mon. Feb. 15, 2021 During the morning’s proceeding, of what takes place within The first proceeding scheduled by he took a little over 45 minutes to government ministries, and the newly formed Commission of present to the commission what he what procedures are Inquiry into the sale of government knew of the sales, and within that undertaken, when public assets took place on Monday, time he described the procedure that assets are sold. February 15, at the Belize City was followed when Government “In the normal course, House of Culture. As previously vehicles and other public assets government departments reported, three persons were called were sold. In some instances, he and government ministries by the commission: former Prime pointed out that particular sales would write to the Vehicles Minister, Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow; were authorized and executed Care Unit, indicating that a Financial Secretary, Joseph Waight; without his expressed consent, particular vehicle has and Ruperto Vicente, Head of the although he had given oral approval crashed or had for one Vehicle Care Unit. of the overall process. reason or the other become Former Prime Minister Dean In typical Dean Barrow fashion, disabled, was not in, for the Barrow was the first to give the former PM first preempted the most part, in running testimony and to answer the questions from the Chairman of the condition, or even if a questions put forward by the three commission by embarking on his members of the commission. own shrewdly woven presentation Please turn to„Page 19 COVID-19 Update DPP reviewing Rene Belize’s passport Montero’s case system is failing, says CEO Dr. Middleton

BELIZE CITY, Mon. Feb. 15, 2021 The COVID-19 epidemiological curve in Belize has flattened considerably since late 2020 when we had thousands of cases across the BELIZE CITY, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 country. Since our last update, no new death In early January 2021, Hon. Julius Espat, related to COVID-19 has been recorded. The Minister of Infrastructure Development and Housing, lodged Please turn to„Page 19 an official Please turn to„Page 19 BELMOPAN, Mon. Feb. 15, 2021 The CEO of the Ministry of Immigration, Dr. Gilroy Middleton, released a statement outlining what he calls an “imminent threat” Arita Vanzie to the nation’s entire passport system. The CEO Municipal says that the system’s failure is due to the non- functionality of its technical service provider, Nominations 2021 accident update 3M Technologies. According to the CEO, the licenses required for the data capture and (See story on page 2) (See story on page 17) biometric machines have Please turn to„Page 17 Page 2 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 PSU says no pay cuts GOB plans to vaccinate teachers “The teachers have to be vaccinated so that we could look at without an action plan opening up the schools, safely.”— Prime Minister Briceño used. In an interview with 7News, BELIZE CITY, Fri. Feb. Vice-President Flowers pointed out, 12, 2020 “As we speak, we still have not been On Friday, February told how much savings were 12, Prime Minister John realized from the cost-saving Briceño told local media measures that have been in place that he had concluded, since April of [this] year. Is it 1% after conversations with of GDP as perhaps — I don’t know the Special Envoy for the if that is what the Prime Minister Development of was alluding to when he said that Families and Children, our cost-saving measures would his wife, Mrs. Rossana only yield 1% GDP, I don’t know. Briceño, that teachers BELIZE CITY, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 If it is that, then that would translate should be vaccinated before the Hon. Briceño further informed the In an interview with local media to what, 18 million, 20 million reopening of schools. He said that he media, “Our aim is by September last week, the 1st Vice-President of dollars, somewhere around there? hopes to have a sufficient number of enough people have been vaccinated. the Public Service Union (PSU), What are we going to use those 20 educators vaccinated by September, The teachers have been vaccinated so Dean Flowers, stated that the PSU million dollars for?” just in time for the new school year, that we could look at opening up the would only consider pay cuts if a He questioned whether the saved so that the government can officially schools, safely.” clear plan for how the savings would funds would be used to service our reopen schools. He outlined that the reopening of be used is presented by the enormous wage bill, or if it would “Rossana told me, if you want to schools is one of the important Government of Belize. When he be used to continue to support the open schools, safely vaccinate the decisions his administration is faced was questioned about this position food assistance programs. He teachers. I think it is a great idea, and with, and the government, along with that he and his union are taking, reasoned that if the funds would be I think she will be discussing that with the Minister of Health and Wellness, Flowers went on to assert that the used to finance current expenses, the Ministry of Education. We will is currently working on a plan for the pay cuts must be viewed in the then the cost-savings which the push that the teachers get vaccinated placement of teachers in priority context of the impact that such cuts measures are supposed to achieve, early so that we can open schools groups for vaccination, according to would have on the country and its wouldn’t be realized. safely.” PM Briceño explained. the PM. public servants at large. “Will [it] be placed in a sinking He stressed that a decrease in fund, so that when those bullet salary would further damage the payments come, we have money morale of employees in the public there to pay? Or will it be used to Municipal Nominations 2021 service who already at this time meet the government’s excesses that (From page 1) have very low morale. Flowers also currently exist? Then, we wouldn’t cautioned that the Government be realizing any savings,” Flowers by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) municipality for the UDP, while would also have to look at the told 7News. Sharon Palacio will lead her team impact the pay cut would have on He added,” You cannot just throw BELIZE CITY, Tues. Feb. 16, 2021 of six aspirants for the PUP. the general economy of the country, a blanket statement out there, that Monday of this week was Dangriga’s team will be led by and lastly, how the savings obtained we’ll cut people’s salaries without Nomination Day for the 67 mayoral incumbent mayoral candidate through the salary cut would be having a clear plan of action.” and councilor-candidates who will Francis Humphreys and his team of be participating in the upcoming six for the UDP while Robert municipal elections. Across the Mariano heads the team for the Minister Courtenay country, the candidates along with PUP. In Benque Viejo Del Carmen, their two registered voter-endorsers Miguel Guerra and his team of six visited various nomination stations are trying to maintain local condemns Arbitrary across the nine municipalities. government influence for the UDP, While the UDP has enjoyed a while Jorge Rosales and his team Detention of foreigners stronghold in six of the nine of six are contending for the PUP. municipalities, including a minority Returning mayor of San Ignacio/ signed the declaration. seat in Dangriga, the leadership of Santa Elena, Earl Trapp has been In his opening remarks, Hon. the cities and towns is up for grabs nominated alongside his team of six Courtenay stated, “Today, the following a historic defeat of the UDP councilor-candidates, while Government of Belize stands with UDP in the general elections. Ramon Quiroz and his team aspire like-minded States to lend our In Belize City, returning mayor to shift the leadership in that area unequivocal support to the Bernard Wagner and his team of in favor of the PUP. Farther south, declaration against Arbitrary eleven candidates — returning Hansel Warrior will lead the UDP Detention in State-to-State Relations. candidates Allan Pollard Jr., Javier and their six hopefuls to the polls Like Canada, which we applaud for Castellanos, Micah Goodin and on March 3, while Charles Selgado leadership on this issue, Belize Albert Vaughan alongside new has been nominated to lead his six considers that the arbitrary arrest or aspirants Kaya Cattouse, Natasha for the PUP in Punta Gorda. detention of persons by a state as a Pipersburgh, Stephanne Hamilton, In the north, Ruben Gonzalez has means of exercising leverage over Michael Novelo, Deannie Requena been selected to push for a victory another state is contrary to and Edmund Kwan — have been for the UDP in San Pedro, while international law, detrimental to nominated to represent the PUP, Wally Martinez and his six have been by Dayne Guy friendly relations among States and while mayoral candidate Orson nominated to vie for office for the corrosive to the international human Picart, alongside Alisha Craig, PUP. Rigo Vellos and his team will BELMOPAN, Mon. Feb. 15, 2021 rights regime.” Allan Kelly, Anazette Olivera, defend their stronghold for the blue Hon. Eamon Courtenay, Minister Hon. Eamon Courtenay further Andrew Bradley, Alan Gonzalez, in Corozal, while Roger Arana has of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and declared that arbitrarily arresting or Leon Guild, Meagan Tasher, Shane entered the race to lead the UDP 7. Immigration, alongside foreign detaining foreigners as leverage is not Williams, Kenny Morgan and Kera Ladrick Sheppard will try to fill the ministers from agreeing states and only a disgrace to the international Bowman were selected to represent shoes of former mayor and newly human rights advocates, convened for rule of law but also an impediment the UDP. elected Minister, Hon. Kevin the Declaration against Arbitrary to the rights of the individual and In Belmopan, a new mayoral Bernard of the PUP, along with a Detention in State-to-State detrimental to economic candidate, Jacklyn Burns, has been team of six, while Orlando Castillo Relations. Thus far, fifty-eight selected to lead a team of seven and his team will seek to bring in a countries (58), including Belize, have Please turn to„Page 3 councilor-hopefuls and defend that victory for the PUP. Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 3 Mayors awarded by the Belize Mayors’ Association for their services

by Dayne Guy Youth, Sports and E- governance. BELMOPAN, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 The awardees were On Friday, February 12, 2021, the Mayor Khalid Belisle Belize Mayors’ Association held its of the Belmopan City meeting for local mayors who have Council, who has been reached the end of their terms, at the serving as mayor since Bull Frog Inn, Belmopan. he replaced incumbent At this meeting, the Ministry of Simeon López in Local Government awarded prizes 2015; Mayor Daniel to those mayors who will not be Guerrero of the San seeking to be re-elected in the Pedro Town Council, upcoming municipal elections, serving from 2012 to including former Orange Walk 2021; Mayor Ashton Town mayor, Hon. Kevin Bernard, Mckenzie of the Punta Gorda Town 2021; Mayor Marconi Sosa of the completion of vital municipal who is currently the Minister of Council, serving from 2015 to Benque Viejo Town Council, development initiatives that have serving from 2018 to 2021; and been on the table for years. Hon. Kevin Bernard, who served as Via correspondence read by the NWC’s board of mayor of Orange Walk Town from Director of Local Government, 2012 to 2020 and now serves in the UNICEF also used this opportunity commissioners National Assembly. to thank the mayors for their Hon. Bernard thanked the mayors cooperation, dedication, and officially inaugurated on behalf of the Minister of Local commitment in the execution of the Government, Hon. Oscar Requeña, Sustainable Child-Friendly and extended his best wishes to the Municipalities Initiative. UNICEF mayors and the association, further gave reassurance that it continues reiterating the government’s to support the program and the support for the implementation and welfare of children in Belize. Forty participants successful in the latest Clerical Certificate Programme expression, general knowledge of the country and its system of by Dayne Guy Gilroy Usher and CEO Tanya Santos government. It challenged the Neal were present at the inaugural officer’s knowledge of his BELIZE CITY, Thurs. Feb. 11, 2021 meeting held on February 11, 2021. department or departments in which Thirteen (13) new members were The commission also serves as an he or she has served. The foundation appointed to the board of advisory body to the Ministry, for this program remains the same.” commissioners of the National advising on women and gender- In the latest Clerical Certificate Women’s Commission. related issues and working towards Program, which was unlike The board is to be led by the effective and efficient planning and preceding programs of its kind commission’s president, Thea Garcia coordination among relevant because it was conducted virtually, Ramos, with Marissa Cervantes stakeholders. 40 participants successfully engaged serving as the board’s vice president. The National Women’s in 8 weeks of online developmental Other members include Pastora Commission is guided by the training, and of these participants, Castillo, treasurer; Dorla Vaughn, standards, principles and goals Ms. Cordelia Belezaire emerged as secretary; Anthony Sabal; Wendy outlined in international the top performer and was named Cabral Williams; Geovannie commitments such as CEDAW, the valedictorian of the cohort. Brackett; Chelsea Cruz; Aurelia Cal; Beijing Declaration and Platform for In her valedictory address, Ms. Kristina Romero; Major Jonathan Action, and the Belem Do Para Belezaire stressed the important role Kellman; Dr. Lesly Perez and Ashanti Convention on eliminating Violence by Dayne Guy of public servants, stating, “Our Arthurs Martin. of Women. effectiveness determines whether The Commission falls under the In related news, Arreini Palacio BELMOPAN, Thurs. Feb. 11, 2021 our government succeeds and Ministry of Human Development, Morgan has been appointed The Minister of Public Service, whether it meets its obligation to the Families and Indigenous People’s chairperson of the National Constitutional and Political Reform, public. No government would be Affairs’ portfolio. Thus, Hon. Committee for Families and Hon. Henry Charles Usher, and Chief able to do its job without public Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Hon. Children. Executive Officer in the Ministry, officers. The government depends Dr. Osmond Martinez, extended their on us to implement its policies.” congratulations to the successful In his words to the cohort, Hon. Minister Courtenay condemns... participants of Cohort 1 of the Minister Henry Charles Usher said, ministry’s Clerical Certificate “You are an essential part of the Continued from Page 2 but it is a commitment to action Programme. government. You are the first „ through international cooperation, Hon. Henry Charles Usher defenders of democracy. You are the development. He stated, “It is harmful aimed at preventing the practice of explained, “The clerical program first initial servants of society. You are to the free movement of people for States arbitrarily arresting, detaining, came into effect in 1982 under the the first point of contact for the business trade and tourism, which are or otherwise infringing on the rights General Orders for Public Service. public. So, continue to thirst for new integral to our economy’s of foreigners for leverage as Belize Back then, the Public Service was information; continue to be development and prosperity. The relies heavily on the respect for known as establishment. This enthusiastic, continue to reach declaration being launched today is examination was designed to beyond what you thought was not only an expression of intention, Please turn to„Page 17 primarily test the officer’s power of possible.” Page 4 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 Former PM Musa GOB budget writes to President consultations continue Biden regarding Cuba

administration’s move to once again put Cuba on the list, “This action comes on top of the six- decade-long blockade against the people and Government of Cuba which continues to cause immeasurable damage. I note that your White House press secretary recently said, ‘we’ll review the Cuba Trump administration policies’.” He also applauded the statement issued by CARICOM on January 13, which called the decision by the Trump administration unilateral and misguided. The release also called the move unproductive, BELIZE CITY, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 unnecessary, and an illegal financial BELMOPAN, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 of ministers held consultations with On Friday, February 12, 2021, and economic embargo. On Friday, February 12, the the Belize National Teachers Union former Prime Minister of Belize, In his statement, Hon. Musa said, Government of Belize held budget (BNTU), and the Association of Hon. Said Musa, wrote a letter to “Cuba is a nation of peace, Cuba consultations with the National Public Senior Service the newly elected president of the promotes cooperation, not Trade Union Congress of Belize Managers (APSSM). United States of America, President violence. Cuba has been a victim (NTUCB) as part of an ongoing According to a government press Joe Biden, regarding the recent of terrorism. Cuban professionals process of consultation with private release, the meetings held with the redesignation of Cuba as a state have been with many nations and public sector stakeholders to BNTU, APSSM and NTUCB were sponsor for terrorism during former fighting pandemics and disasters get their feedback on measures to all productive. The release states, US president Donald Trump’s term like Ebola, AIDS, and COVID-19.” be taken as the government puts “[The meetings] were all productive of office. He added, “Removing the recent together a budget for the new fiscal and focused on meaningful ways of On April 14, 2015, the Obama designation and lifting the embargo year. working together to find practical, administration, which preceded the will be acts of justice benefiting Present at the budget consultation equitable solutions to the critical presidency of Donald Trump, had Cuba, the USA, and the region.” with the NTUCB and the financial situation facing the announced that it would remove In closing his letter, the former Government of Belize were a team nation.” Cuba from the United States State Prime Minister of Belize invited of four government ministers and The Government of Belize has Sponsors of Terrorism list, and the Belizeans and citizens of the the executive membership of the less than one month before the country was officially removed Caribbean and Central American NTUCB. presentation of the new budget for from the list on May 29, 2015. nations to join in supporting the Also, on February 11, the team the coming fiscal year. In his letter, the former Prime statement issued to the new US Minister of Belize stated, in administration in solidarity with the reference to the Trump’s people and government of Cuba. Machete-wielding man Lobster season extended shot in the leg by police BELIZE CITY, Sat. Feb. 13, 2021 leg with his service pistol. for two weeks Reports are that on Saturday The man with the machete has evening, a man armed with a since been identified as 46-year-old machete entered a restaurant on Clarence Ramos, Jr. Both Ramos Marine Parade and proceeded to and his victim, Akeem Patterson, chop one of the restaurant’s patrons, were taken by police to the Karl Akeem Patterson, in the head for no Heusner Memorial Hospital for apparent reason. treatment. Police were called to the scene, Police have not yet been able to where the machete-wielding man identify the reason for Ramos’ proceeded to approach an officer, violent behavior, but they are since identified as PC Garbutt, in a continuing to investigate.. He is threatening manner, and the officer expected to be charged for the reacted by shooting him once in the injuries he caused to Patterson. decision is in line with the regional June 30th in any year.” lobster regulation (OSP-02-09) Persons found in possession of implemented by the Organization lobsters after the effective date of for Central American Fisheries and closure will be prosecuted as Aquaculture Sector (OSPESCA). mandated by the Fisheries BELMOPAN, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 subsequent release, however, The release states, “The decision Regulations. The Government of Belize has pushed back this date to February made by Hon. Andre Perez, “The Fisheries Department also decided to extend the closing date 28, 2021. Minister of the Blue Economy and reminds fishers that lobster traps for the Caribbean spiny lobster Fishermen and women will get Civil Aviation, in consultation should be removed from fishing season. On February 11, the a much needed extra two weeks to with the Fisheries Department and grounds during the closed season. Ministry of Blue Economy and harvest lobsters and generate the industry, is in accordance with The Department will be actively Civil Aviation announced that the income during the lobster season the Fisheries Regulation 24A (1). enforcing the removal of traps closure of the season would take for this year. According to the The closed season for spiny lobster from the waters during this effect on February 15. A Government press release, the will now be from March 1st to period,” the release states.

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Politics and the people: a matter of trust

It is said that sports often mirrors life. There are popular sayings British sent him back home to British Honduras supposedly “in that some consider to be “Bible” truths in sports, and these tend disgrace,” after publicly accusing him of meeting secretly with to focus on the merits of winning. One says, “Winning is not the Guatemalan foreign minister in London, while attending a everything; it is the ONLY thing.” In Kriol we often hear people constitutional conference there. But Price’s loyal followers were say, “Dutty win betta dan pretty lose.” In the game of politics, unmoved, demonstrating a massive show of support for the which is commonly regarded as the quest for political power, the returning premier at the Belize International Airport with signs general outlook seems to go along those lines. It’s all about winning that boldly declared, “Contact or no contact.” And Price’s PUP at the polls, regardless of what a party has to do or say to “get won another landslide election victory, 9-0. there.” As long as you can get away with it, and it will help the The PUP were undefeated in elections before Independence. party’s chances to win an election, the general attitude seems to But subsequent governments, both blue and red, had repeatedly be, why not? run into fiscal/budget problems, leading to losses at the polls. And then we wonder why crime is rampant in the country. Indeed, following Independence it had become “one een, one The world we live in today, is a result of that outlook and out” with the PUP and UDP for two decades afterwards. (UDP philosophy having taken root and spread across nations and 1984-89; PUP 1989-93; UDP 1993-98; PUP 1998-2003…) cultures, like a cancerous growth that is not easily removed or For the first time since Independence, there seemed to be no uprooted. money problems for the PUP government in 2003, and they won Cancerous indeed, because it has not resulted in the noble another big victory, 22-7 seats, in the first back-to-back general ideal that all citizens intrinsically crave for, called simply “good election victory of any party since Independence. governance.” There had been no obvious gimmick involved in the PUP If winning was the ONLY thing in politics, then the past UDP government’s back-to-back 2003 election victory, but there was administration, which recorded an unprecedented third a hidden fact that camouflaged the financial difficulties that had consecutive general election victory in independent Belize, would repeatedly been the determining factor in Belize’s elections. Large have to be considered hands-down the best government we have secret international borrowing at commercial rates had made ever had. And, as another saying goes, “even blind-eye Jamesie” things look good for the PUP government in 2003, but the could see that was not the case. “chickens soon came home to roost” when the massive debt The first prime minister of Belize once said that “where leaders was revealed along with the need to negotiate a Super Bond to lack vision, the people perish.” Vision, or the lack thereof, is keep the ship of state floating. quite apparent to Belize City Figuring most prominently in the PUP financial quagmire was residents every day as we cross their minister of economic development and budgetary planning, the Belcan Bridge and behold Hon. Ralph Fonseca. (See Amandala editorial, “Public finances, the beautiful spectacle of the private domain” of Tuesday, September 24, 2004.) Trust was new Civic Center, which gone in the PUP; and the UDP, led by new leader Dean O. Barrow, reportedly cost taxpayers some won a landslide general election victory, 25-6, in 2008 on a platform Amandala(estb. 1969) thirty-three million dollars. Built of rooting out corruption. The new UDP prime minister famously Business and editorial offices: to meet First World standards, said in a post-election rally that at the slightest “whiff” of 3304 Partridge Street, Belize this impressive edifice was corruption, he would take out his “machete” and cut it out. From City, Belize, Central America designed for total air- then on it was supposed to be “honesty, transparency and is printed twice weekly by the conditioning, making the cost accountability,” sweet music to the ears of the Belizean electorate. Amandala Press. Telephones: 501-280-4703/ of operation out of reach for With debt servicing of the inherited Super Bond to deal with, 501-202-4477 most sporting groups, who things were not looking rosy for the new UDP government in have chosen instead to host 2008, but it quickly improved, as they were beneficiaries to a their events at the ($1.5- first-time bonanza that no previous Belize government had Publisher: Evan X Hyde million?) Swift Hall auditorium enjoyed: hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue from the new Editor-in-chief: Marco Lopez a half mile away near St. oil well in Spanish Lookout, and also hundreds of millions of Business Manager: Jacinta Hyde Martin’s, or the similar SCA dollars available from the Petro Caribe deal with Venezuela. Make-up & Design auditorium, another natural air- With that kind of financial cushion, it was a bit surprising when Artist: Andrea Dennison ventilated arena for sports that the UDP government called elections early in 2012. Indeed, they Executive Secretary: Odessa falls well within the budget of were not in any serious fiscal crunch, as previous governments Robinson Smith local sports entrepreneurs. had been; and the opposition PUP were caught off guard, in the Compositor: Tyra Welch That is just one of the many midst of a leadership squabble which saw them change leaders decisions made by the three times in a year – from Mark Espat, to Johnny Briceño, to Lithography: Clive Smith previous 3-time UDP Francis Fonseca. So, the UDP retained power with their own back- Printers: Kent Brooks administration that have come to-back victory at the general elections in 2012, but surprisingly back to haunt them and us, only by a 17-14 margin. Please email Correspondence: and have led to questions With cries of corruption, beginning in 2013 with passports and [email protected] about their methods used to soon including the airport and lands, becoming louder and secure victory at the polls a stronger, and the oil well slowing down in production, and the Advertisements to: third consecutive time. Was once popular nationalization of BTL demanding more financial [email protected] “winning” again worth it? attention, and as well other Ashcroft debts including the UHS When a leader has secured loan, the UDP government was in need of a gimmick to stop the Mailing Address: the people’s trust, that should inexorable swing of the tide of trust which seemed to be moving Amandala Press be all that matters come in the direction of the opposition PUP. The Super Bond having 3304 Partridge Street election time. No gimmicks or grown much larger, and government revenues bleeding from c/o P.O. Box 15, skullduggery is needed. various quarters through rampant corruption, and oil and Petro Belize City, Belize Many expected a political Caribe funds dwindling, P.M. Dean Barrow made a brilliant political nightmare for then Premier move, a master gimmick, if you will, to Amandala’s website: George Price, when in 1957 the dodge defeat and turn it into a victory. Please turn to Page 14 amandala.com.bz „ Page 6 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 Fire on the Barracks (The essay below was first published in FEELINGS, which was “a collection of writings by Evan X Hyde (Alif Ansar Mujahid) during the years 1972 to 1975.”) SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1972 sun was shining, and just a light Cruisers’ manager, Birdie Ratch Toyota on the attack again — MCC GROUNDS breeze, nothing to talk about. Craig, was in glee. Garrincha is Garrincha, Christobal, Aqui Esta, It was the biggest game of the Toyota Cruisers versus Spurs, and actually from Stann Creek and plays Scalp, Toad, Rungu, Johnny Pegga, football season so far, and everybody the winners would be favourites to ball with Queen’s Park Rangers, but Ching, Lanzey, and now Christobal who was somebody came streaming win the Belize City title. The famous when Toyota Cruisers have a big in play again in the middle, beats in, glad rags was everywhere. Good Garrincha was in town, and Toyota game they bring him up to play some goalkeeper Lord, but his neatly of the best inside left and left wing placed shot comes out off the post, anybody has seen. and Spurs fans sigh. Spurs were depending on On the right wing, Malcolm is all Congolon and his long passes to the while having a rough time trying Mundo Myvett and Goldburn to beat the Toad. And now Spurs’ Gordon, and the fitness and discipline back Cattouse, under much pressure of their team. In the first game this from Garrincha, fouls the ball with afternoon, Berger Lakers upset a his hand and Lanzey smokes a low weakened Diamond A squad, 3-2. bullet for the goal to Lord’s left. As Diamond A, who were figured to be goalkeeper Lord makes his move for strong in the running, have been the ball, it deflects off somebody we damaged by the loss of right wing could not see, and Lord is beaten. Michael Hyde (cracked rib), stopper Toyota, 2-0, and still the first half and Ramon Alvarez and flyer Solomon Toyota still on the attack. Congolon Usher (who are playing in Orange has to kick a ball out of the goal one Walk). To make matters worse, this spell. The first half ends 2-0, and the afternoon left back Gas had to be fans applaud, for they have seen carried off the field with a torn right football at its best. knee. Birdie Ratch now walks across the When the whistle blew for Toyota- field in glory with his football slung Spurs, Toyota soon established across his shoulder. Can Spurs get control of the game, moving the ball back? The crowd is buzzing. in a professional manner. But center Second half, and Congolon forward Hashy Ferguson seemed immediately shoots a ball from overeager, and committed two quick midfield, Toyota keeper McKenzie fouls. Congolon was in the back for leaps, but the ball bounces off the Spurs, and strangely enough, Spurs cross piece, and now Gordon shoots had put Malcolm on the right wing, and McKenzie knocks it out, and which is not his position, for he is a Spurs have lost their best chance. midfield general. After fifteen They stay on the attack for some minutes into the game, Hashy moved ten minutes, but Mundo cannot beat a ball in from the left side, cutting Rungu, and as the half continues into the center under pressure. When Toyota regains command of the game, the ball rolled free inside left, even though Johnny Pegga suffers a Christobal Mayen coming from serious knee injury and has to be nowhere smoking, and Spurs’ carried off. goalkeeper, Roy Lord, diving to his To make matters worse for Spurs, left desperately was late. Toyota, 1- this year’s Joe North chose this time 0. to start blowing cold dust across the Soon after, Hashy and Spurs’ field from north to south, and Toyota stopper Kello were put off the field are shooting in the south goal. It is by Referee Mossiah after a right wing Ching who finishes off misunderstanding. Spurs. Intercepting a weak Spurs’ goal kick, he drives straight for the goal and smokes a shot six inches inside the post and foot off the ground. Toyota, 3-0. And that’s the way it ended. It could easily have been six, but for some desperate Spur defence. It was a beautifully played game.

All power to the people.

VACANCY VACANCY: Mel’s Restaurant is in need of staff to work at 93 Albert Street, Belize City. Contact number 673-8537. NOTICE

NOTICE: I, Robert Ryan Atkinson, state that I have lost the registration certificate on February 2, 2021, for motor vessel, Bush Remedy, Registration Number BZ 2549. Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 7

Date: February 4, 2021 To: SUPPLIERS OF SECURITY GUARD SERVICES, BELIZE C.A.

Tender Invitation – Security of Hospital Facilities, Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority (K.H.M.H.A.)

Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority invites interested and reputable contractors with suitably trained Security Guards relevant to the specific service (s) listed below to apply for pre-qualification:

Provision of 24-hour coverage of the entire hospital compound and units as follows:

Ø Checkpoint (16 hrs) Ø A&E Supervisor (24 hrs) Ø Front Desk (16 hrs) Ø A&E (Inside) (24 hrs) Ø Front Desk Supervisor (16 hrs) Ø A&E (Outside) (24 hrs) Ø Ward/Front Desk (2) (10 hrs) Ø Front Gate (24hrs) Ø Staff Entrance/Roving (24 hrs) Ø Back Gate (24hrs) Ø Staff Entrance Checkpoint (12 hrs) Ø General Surgical Ward (24 hrs)

Requirements for the security services and responsibility of services provider: 1. To provide continuous surveillance for hospital’s internal and external compound 2. Institute security precautionary measures for the protection of KHMHA’s patients, staff, clientele, property, compound and equipment 3. To maintain overall order within the hospital by being knowledgeable of the hospital’s policies and enforcement thereof 4. Must be fully registered and licensed and have all required legal permits for provision of security services. 5. Must have firearms licensed for the provision of armed security services. 6. The armed Security Supervisors must possess all required legal permits for the firearms. 7. Must ensure adherence to the Labour Law of Belize when formulating shift structure.

8. The security company must provide the following equipment: handheld metal scanners, firearms (only for supervisors), Tasers, communication devices, flashlight for night shift, O.C. spray for gates, cuffs, batons, patrol checking device and all other necessary supplies.

Pre-qualification Requirements: Ø Business registration certificate and full office address (es) of company in Belize including: telephone numbers, fax number and e- mail address Ø Current certificate of good standing from Company Registry Ø Company’s profile, organizational structure with names of key personnel and all management staff including their resumes Ø A copy of your company code of conduct Ø Any additional information that will enhance the potential of the company

Commencement and validity of Provision of Security Service: Ø The contract is expected to commence on June 1, 2021 and will be for an initial period of two years from the effective date with a one- year extension option.

A meeting will be held at the KHMHA Conference Room to address any queries that the Companies may have on February 24, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.

Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “KHMHASecurity Services” addressed to Manager of Operations, Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, Princess Margaret Drive, Belize City, Belize C.A. on or beforeMarch 5, 2021 at 4 p.m.

KHMHA reserves the right to reject any or all Tenders. Page 8 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 Política y el pueblo: una cuestión de confianza

Se dice que los deportes a menudo reflejan la vida. Hay dichos problemas de dinero para el gobierno del PUP en 2003, y populares que algunos consideran verdades “bíblicas” en los obtuvieron otra gran victoria, 22-7 escaños, en la primera victoria deportes, y estos tienden a centrarse en los méritos de ganar. consecutiva en las elecciones generales de cualquier partido Uno dice: “Ganar no lo es todo; es la ÚNICA cosa.” En criollo a desde la Independencia. menudo escuchamos a la gente decir: “Ganar feo es mejor que No hubo ningún truco obvio involucrado en la victoria electoral perder bonito”. En el juego de la política, que se considera consecutiva del gobierno del PUP en 2003, pero había un hecho comúnmente como la búsqueda del poder político, la perspectiva oculto que camuflaba las dificultades financieras que habían general parece seguir esa línea. Se trata de ganar en las urnas, sido repetidamente el factor determinante en las elecciones de independientemente de lo que un partido tenga que hacer o Belize. Gran endeudamiento internacional secreto a tasas decir para “llegar allí”. Siempre que puedan salirse con la suya y comerciales hizo que las cosas se vieran bien para el gobierno ayude a las posibilidades de que el partido gane una elección, la PUP en 2003, pero al final se cosechó lo que se sembró cuando actitud general parece ser, ¿por qué no? se reveló la enorme deuda junto con la necesidad de negociar Y luego nos preguntamos por qué la delincuencia es un Súper Bono para mantener flotando el barco del estado. desenfrenada en el país. La figura más prominente en el atolladero financiero del PUP El mundo en el que vivimos hoy es el resultado de que esa fue su ministro de desarrollo económico y planificación perspectiva y esa filosofía se hayan arraigado y se hayan presupuestaria, el Honorable Ralph Fonseca. (Véase el editorial extendido a través de naciones y culturas, como un crecimiento de Amandala, “Finanzas públicas, dominio privado” del martes canceroso que no se elimina ni se desarraiga fácilmente. 24 de septiembre de 2004.) Se perdió la confianza en el PUP; y De hecho, canceroso, porque no ha dado lugar al noble ideal el UDP, dirigido por el nuevo líder Dean O. Barrow, obtuvo una que todos los ciudadanos anhelan intrínsecamente, llamado aplastante victoria en las elecciones generales, 25-6, en 2008 en simplemente “buen gobierno”. una plataforma de erradicar la corrupción. El nuevo primer Si ganar fuera lo ÚNICO en la política, entonces la pasada ministro del UDP dijo en un mitin postelectoral que al menor administración del UDP, que registró una tercera victoria “olorcillo” de corrupción, sacaría su “machete” y lo eliminaría. A consecutiva sin precedentes en las elecciones generales en el partir de entonces se suponía que sería “honestidad, Belize independiente, tendría que ser considerado, sin lugar a transparencia y responsabilidad”, música dulce para los oídos dudas, el mejor gobierno que hemos tenido. Y, como dice otro del electorado beliceño. refrán, “incluso Jamesie de mala visión” podía ver que ese no Con la necesidad de abordar el servicio de la deuda del heredado era el caso. súper bono, las cosas no se veían optimistas para el nuevo El primer primer ministro de Belize dijo una vez que “donde gobierno UDP en 2008, pero mejoraron rápidamente, ya que los líderes carecen de visión, la gente muere”. La visión, o la falta fueron beneficiarios de una bonanza por primera vez que ningún de ella, es bastante evidente para los residentes de la Ciudad de gobierno de Belize anterior había disfrutado: cientos de millones Belize todos los días cuando cruzamos el Puente Belcan y de dólares en ingresos del nuevo yacimiento de petróleo en contemplamos el hermoso espectáculo del nuevo Centro Cívico, Spanish Lookout, y también cientos de millones de dólares que supuestamente costó a los contribuyentes unos treinta y disponibles en el acuerdo de Petro Caribe con Venezuela. tres millones de dólares. Construido para cumplir con los Con ese tipo de colchón financiero, fue un poco sorprendente estándares del Primer Mundo, este impresionante edificio fue cuando el gobierno UDP convocó elecciones a principios de 2012. diseñado para estar totalmente acondicionado, lo que hace que De hecho, no se encontraban en una grave crisis fiscal, como lo el costo de operación esté fuera del alcance de la mayoría de los habían estado gobiernos anteriores; y el opositor PUP fue tomado grupos deportivos, que han optado por albergar sus eventos en por sorpresa, en medio de una disputa de liderazgo que los vio el auditorio del Salón Swift (¿$ 1.5 millones?) a media milla de cambiar de líder tres veces en un año - de Mark Espat, a Johnny distancia, cerca de San Martin, o del auditorio similar de Santa Briceño, a Francis Fonseca. Por lo tanto, el UDP retuvo el poder Catalina, otra arena para deportes con ventilación natural que se con su propia victoria consecutiva en las elecciones generales encuentra dentro del presupuesto de los empresarios deportivos de 2012, pero sorprendentemente solo por un margen de 17- locales. Esa es solo una de las muchas decisiones tomadas por 14. la administración anterior del UDP de tres turnos que ha regresado Con gritos de corrupción, comenzando en 2013 con pasaportes a perseguirlos a ellos y a nosotros, y ha llevado a preguntas y pronto incluyendo el aeropuerto y tierras, volviéndose más sobre sus métodos utilizados para asegurar la victoria en las ruidosos y más fuertes, y el yacimiento de petróleo desacelerando urnas por tercera vez consecutiva. ¿Valió la pena “ganar” de su producción, y la una vez popular nacionalización de BTL nuevo? exigiendo más atención financiera, y también otras deudas de Cuando un líder ha asegurado la confianza de la gente, eso Ashcroft incluyendo el préstamo de UHS, el gobierno UDP debería ser todo lo que importa en el momento de las elecciones. necesitaba un truco para detener el inexorable vaivén de la marea No se necesitan trucos ni engaños. de confianza que parecía moverse en la dirección del opositor Muchos esperaban una pesadilla política para el entonces PUP. El súper bono habiendo crecido mucho más, y los ingresos primer ministro George Price, cuando en 1957 los británicos lo del gobierno desangrando de varios sectores debido a la enviaron de regreso a Honduras Británica supuestamente “en corrupción desenfrenada, y los fondos del petróleo y Petro Caribe desgracia”, después de acusarlo públicamente de reunirse en disminuyendo, el PM Dean Barrow hizo una brillante jugada secreto con el canciller guatemalteco en Londres, mientras asistía política, un truco maestro, si se quiere, para esquivar la derrota a una conferencia constitucional allí. Pero los leales seguidores y convertirla en una victoria. Y esto lo logró en una ofensiva de de Price no se conmovieron, demostrando una muestra masiva tres frentes. Primero, volvió a convocar elecciones anticipadas, de apoyo al primer ministro a su regreso en el Aeropuerto con un año completo y cuatro meses de anticipación, para Internacional de Belize con carteles que declaraban audazmente: sorprender al opositor PUP con los pies desprevenidos. Consiguió “Contacto o sin contacto”. Y el PUP de Price ganó otra abrumadora que Belize Sugar Industries (BSI) retrasara dos semanas el victoria electoral, 9-0. anuncio de las cifras del segundo pago a los cientos de El PUP estaba invicto en las elecciones anteriores a la productores de caña, sabiendo que los muy decepcionantes Independencia. Pero los gobiernos posteriores, tanto azul como pagos habrían perjudicado seriamente la popularidad del UDP rojo, se habían topado repetidamente con problemas fiscales/ en las urnas. Y luego, en la movida más grande de todas, que presupuestarios, lo que provocó pérdidas en las urnas. De hecho, aseguró el juego, anunció el final de todos los problemas con después de la Independencia se había convertido en “uno dentro, BTL y Lord Ashcroft, ya que él, el PM Barrow había negociado uno fuera” con el PUP y el UDP durante dos décadas después. personalmente un buen acuerdo, según se informó, que (UDP 1984-89; PUP 1989-93; UDP 1993-98; PUP 1998-2003…) terminaría para siempre con la saga de Por primera vez desde la Independencia, no parecía haber pagos BTL. Con ese truco electoral de Vea página „ 18 Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 9

When I was a child growing up people on a pedestal, no matter how The disturbing thing to me is just reason to believe that the United in British Honduras in the 1950s, much money they had. Again, it just how much many basically decent Democratic Party (UDP), as our people did not rate members of seemed that way to me. But Belizeans publicly embrace his sanctimonious as its rhetoric was, our community by how much remember, I was from a middle kingdom, or have absolutely which ruled from 2008 to 2020, money and possessions they had. class family, and from a nothing to say about the dreadful really played some games with Perhaps I was too young to neighborhood (Regent Street West financial crisis in which Lord Ashcroft which benefited him far appreciate the subtleties of the and West Canal Street) which was Michael Ashcroft, who has said more than was good for The Jewel. human rating system in our Belize middle class mixed with some roots. repeatedly that he loves us Belizeans Generally speaking, even today, City society, but that’s the way it A couple blocks away, in most of dearly, holds us hostage. we Belizeans like to act as if money seemed to me back then. We rated the streets like George and West, Most of us Belizeans seek to give is not the most powerful factor in Belize people on their social/family there were probably more roots than the impression that money is not the our lives. But, let us be honest. pride and performance, their middle class. Remember one more dominant factor in our lives. Yes, Money is very, very important, and excellence in their work, in time: I was a child. most of us like, treasure even, there are future considerations as education, in sports, and the arts, What I want to talk about today material things (consumer goods), well as present ones. People jump and their personal vibes, so to is money, and the reason I want to but I think we are, generally at opportunities to secure speak. talk about money is because of Lord speaking, Ten Commandments their futures, to make sure that as Today in Belize, and it appears Michael Ashcroft, and how he has people. Well, at least that’s the way they age they have enough assets to to me this has been so for three or used money to shackle us Belizeans it was when I was a child. The deal with life’s various four decades, we rate Belizeans in a kind of debt slavery which coming of American cable responsibilities. There are some almost strictly by how much money suggests that our time in the television almost forty years ago very talented Belizeans who became they have. It doesn’t really matter struggle for self-rule in the 1960s has polluted the values of our Ashcroft assets, and those Belizeans how you obtained your money: in and 1970s was wasted. Beginning younger generation, but these have assisted hugely in frigging us. 2021 you don’t rate if you don’t in the early 1960s, with the younger generations will have to I will not indict or condemn them, have money. acquisition of the then monopoly speak for themselves. however. What I will say is, the man When it came to the rackets back telecommunications company on How did Belizeans get into this Ashcroft did a superb job of in the 1950s, there were activities the eve of the June 1993 general hole where we owe Lord Ashcroft identifying and recruiting the best like prostitution, gambling, loan election, Lord Ashcroft, when we so much money? It started with the of our Belizean talent. sharking, and so on, but respectable speak of money, has become the ruling People’s United Party (PUP) Belize society did not put such 2021 King of Belize. in the early 1990s, but there is Please turn to„Page 10 Page 10 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021

ATLANTIC INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED What race are you Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the position of Freetown BranchCustomer Service Representative As long as there is a class of people in a country that Key Responsibilities: earns less than the cost of Ø Attending to walk-in-customers and or prospective living, they continue to be customers (prospect) and also attend to customer/ slaves. As long as the laws of prospects via telephone. a country are not applied to all Ø Prepare all necessary insurance documents as required. its inhabitants, we live in a corrupted and unequal system Ø Assist customers and prospects via telephone in order where the privileged class has to close sale and create referral base for future business. the right to be Her Majesty’s Ø Develop prospect listing using the questionnaire form excellent criminals. completed by our customers. Someone, some time ago, Ø Prepare Daily Remission Report as per deadline if the asked me: “What race are need arises. you?” My response was: “I am a product of the clash of Ø Attend to queries forwarded Department Managers and races that took place in the Belizean human-being.” And as ensure it is resolved efficiently Americas.” such, I am concerned because of the Ø Provide basic marketing of Atlantic Insurance Products The person insisted: “Are you a pandemic we are going through, as to customers/prospects who visit the office and to Creole or Mestizo? You must well as an “economic crisis” and the customers/prospects who are contacted via the choose one.” I replied by saying: expectation of a third wave of the “My father is a Creole and my Covid-19 virus, including its telephone/visits. mother a Mestiza. What race would variants. that be?” The person was filling Belize is about to complete its QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: out a document that had race as a 40th anniversary as a politically part of the required information. independent nation. But it has been This post requires an individual who hold himself/herself to Such a method is not surprising, unable to eradicate poverty and the highest standards and have a strong desire for personal since it is reflected on the Belizean racial discrimination, much less national flag, on which there are crime. It seems to be a good growth and professional success. The individual should two male human figures — one business for the Westminster displayinitiative, diligence, self-confidence, and outgoing representing the Creole and the Parliamentary Democratic system. personalities. other the Mestizo community. I personally find it discriminatory. [email protected] Ø Minimum - Associate Degree in Business However, my last response to the February 12, 2021 person’s question was the Finca Solana Administration with at least one year working following statement: “I am a Corozal Town experience in customer service Ø Can demonstrate familiarity with basic principles in the area of Sales Ø Strong work ethic From the Publisher Ø Ability to work independently and as part of a team Ø Ability to communicate, both orally and in writing Continued from Page 9 have been seduced, I will say that I „ will not condemn you. But I urge Ø Professional demeanor both on the phone and in Let me tell you a story. Some years you to consider our Belizean person ago, when Ashcroft used to visit situation in the light of where we Ø Proficiency is required in Microsoft Excel and Belize and hang out at Jeremy came, from 1838 and the BEC days. Microsoft Word Spooner’s restaurant on North Front We are in bad shape. We owe too Ø Bilingual in English and Spanish Street, Ashcroft told the late, great much money. What did we do with Kareem Clarke, our gifted reporter the money? Where is it? Ø Valid drivers license at the newspaper, that he wanted to On Saturday morning in the heat talk to me and that I should not worry of the sun, I saw a black man lying DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF about the “beefing” that he and on his back in the middle of the Philip Kremandala had had. Goldson Highway, where the ONLINE APPLICATIONS IS FRIDAY 19 I ignored the message, not because highway meets the junction with the February 2021 I am more righteous than anyone Vista del Mar cutoff. His legs were Lord Ashcroft has bought, but curled up. Two policemen were because I had been around long coming from the nearby police booth ALL ONLINE APPLICATIONS MUST enough to know that Ashcroft and I to check him out. I thought to myself, INCLUDE: were opponents, fundamental and beloved, this is a time for grieving. inveterate opponents, even though In the words of the late, great Mister his personality is so pleasant. Program, “Nobody want to see I TWO RECENT LETTERS OF REFERENCE To those of our Belizeans who rise.” Nobody. FROM PAST EMPLOYERS AND A VALID POLICE RECORD KREM PHONES: SEND APPLICATIONS AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS TO: OFFICE: 280-4469 IN STUDIO: 280-4299 our website at: https://aicbelize.com/ ON LINE LIVE: www.krembz.com employment-application Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 11

Limited talk on talent, nepotism, and politicians

by Colin Hyde have preferred for the new GoB to embarrassing the Constitution. They disappointing managers of the reach deeper into the broader talent are providing damning testimony economy, are the masters of the PM Briceño took a lot of flak last pool. that we should burn it and make a political games. week for telling a 7News reporter Hmm, we do have to accept that a new one. Talking politicians…they are that key jobs and board small population size does limit the The PUP, the maestros of catchy people who feel like they are God’s appointments given out by his number of persons with cutting edge songs, if nothing else, are singing gift, and while they are not the only government that could be considered talent, so we aren’t likely to ever win dehn have to go, dehn have to go. people who feel that way about their nepotistic placements weren’t that the World Cup. Brothers, go before the police grab gifts, they are the only people faysi many, especially when we factor in Talking nepotism…Doctors unu by unu pants behind. Stop enough to say it out loud, throw their that …Belize is a small society, we Melissa and Manza…we just traded embarrassing the Constitution! colors in the popularity contest, and have limited talent… one for the other, and the rate of Talking bregging...Orange accept being told that they’re only in A day or so after his comment, Covid-19 infections went down, Walkeños… it must be that people it fu teef, before and after the ballots the PM offered an apology to those down, down. Oh, it was said by some from that district feel they are ehm, are counted. who expressed indignation over that Dr. Melissa got the job through better than the rest of us, and if so it Nowhere on earth do you find what he said. The PM told Channel sick nepotism, but no one questioned could be because their capital is politicians who are humble. It Five that his party won twenty-six the lady’s talent. called Shuga City, and sugar has been doesn’t go with the territory. They seats and they put in forty people in We don’t have enough evidence king in Belize forever. Remember feel they are it, and that some of their high places from their DNA/good to take us to the verdict that in the when DPM Vega said his family family are it, and that’s one of the buddy talent pool. The PM said fight against Covid-19, Dr. Melissa wasn’t normal? Okay, some took reasons why wherever governments Belizeans are talented, that over the is better than Dr. Manza, because offense, but I didn’t, because I deal form, family and close friends are in years his private businesses had hired there are a number of variables with facts, I like to think so. the mix. There is no law that says a hundreds of them, and he regretted involved here, and because of these Mr. Vega is a successful blood relative or someone with that some of us had been offended variables we also can’t say that the businessman, and you really can’t whom one spends a lot of time by his statement. PUP has been carrying on a better argue with the bottom line. Mr. Vega hanging out, must not get any plum Nepotism is the hiring or fight against the crippling disease is a lot more successful at business jobs or be placed on strategic boards. appointment of someone who is than the UDP had. But in a world than most of us, and business isn’t Politicians are an arrogant breed, related by blood or close friendship where the most emphasis is on the marbles or hopscotch, it’s the engine and arrogance is a close cousin to to the boss, and in the strict sense it bottom line, the present reading is of the world. Of course, we found madness, and the only way to handle applies to both private and public that the PUP and Dr. Melissa have a out later that Mr. Vega might also madness is to humor it. There’s a ton businesses, but there is a vast better game than the UDP and Dr. be a dirty rotten crook, but that might of unused tolerance about since a difference between the two, except Manza did. be a completely unrelated story. certain crowd started agitating for in cases where the private business By the way, what is wrong with Turning to PM Briceño, well, like full acceptance, so we have the gets so large that its failure would these veteran dudes at the Public his predecessor, Dean Barrow, supply to spread around. We might have serious repercussions for a Services Commission? One was monetary success is written all over not want to spend such a precious society. appointed a UDP senator and made him, so he didn’t need our job. He virtue on political animals, but we What happens in the public a minister in a UDP government and has to be some confident in himself have to, because of their rabid domain is always consequential, the other was the editor of the UDP indeed, confident that he and his nature. because we are all direct shareholders newspaper and is the husband of the party will point us to recovery That is what they are. A lot of in every business the government is UDP area rep for Albert. My gudnis, quickly, or he couldn’t have been so people used to sing about the fine engaged in, and we rise and fall with they are clutching the Constitution. bold in these hard times to have his example of a democracy up north their performance. So, we have every They say it gives them the right to party hire friends and faamli. But he between Mexico and Canada, but that right to question who gets hired/ stay in their jobs and frustrate the did a gulp and apologized because great democracy couldn’t harness appointed, and especially at this time, hell out of Minister Henry Charles. municipal elections are right around their leader when he started acting with things being so dread, we would I think those bohgaz are the bend, and the rotten UDP, those up like a wild horse. No, they had to ehm, teef the elections to get him out. PM needs to ehm…apologize to Pere

PM Briceño should not have called the popular Pere a fool because he uttered foolishnis about the state of the economy. Give the prize to DPM Hyde for his proper psychoanalysis. The DPM said Pere is a funny guy, which, when translated, means he (Pere) is playing clown. There is good news, though, and we have to hand it to Pere’s mom, because her boy is no real liar. He must have got his proper share of whipping to cure of him of the devil’s sin. They say to be a good disciple of Satan you have to keep a good file, and man, Pere was going around in circles, all mix up…first the inherited economy was good, then Barrow warned them, then they should have been better prepared for the task. I say, Pere would never make a Please turn to„Page 15 Page 12 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021

be on the Belize National A Team. and Luka Doncic will get a playoff They will go to Haiti for a game spot. They had a slow start. The against the Haitians on the 25th of UTAH Jazz still has the best record March; Belize will shock Haiti 2 at 22-5, the Lakers are now 21-6. “Press” Predictions: 47-25-17 goals to 1. Deon McCaulay will In the East, the Philadelphia 76ers Boledo stats thru 16th to 23rd score both goals. The game is just are still on top of the standings, the Feb. 2021 37 days away. Coach Mr. Dale Boston Celtics are struggling. The by Gilroy “Press” Cadogan In boledo news, 21 and 49 finally Pelayo will have some stern Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis played after out over 1 year and 2 decision to select 23 players from Antetokoumpo will get their act months. These are my lucky the 34 that are practicing. Denmark together; the league has real have In the La Liga, Atletico Madrid numbers for this week: 47-17-38- Casey, Jr. and Andres “Jr” Makin parity right now. Next week some will win the league. They have a 83-25-02. These are my lucky will definitely be in the midfield. results. 10-point lead plus they also have jackpot numbers: 7208-5622- FIFA picked the Haitians to win that a game pending. FC Barcelona and 9634. These are my PICK-3 group of 5 teams including Real Madrid have the same numbers: 308-265-194-707-660- Nicaragua, St. Lucia and Turks & amount of points. Luis Suarez is 585. Get ready Belize, some dinero Caicos. Belize will have 2 road one of the best strikers in the will be coming our way. 59 refuses games first, then the last 2 at home world, 16 goals already. Paul to play since the 30th of May 2019, in Belmopan. Deshawn Nembhard that’s over 1 year 8 months 2 weeks will be the sweeper, the team is Deshaun Watson wanted to be and 2 days now. 04 is still out for pretty young; next week more stats. traded over 1 year2 months 1 week and 3 NFL updates and predictions days now. Then 47 will be out this In NFL news, the Belize Tourism week after 1 year 1 month and 2 Board wants to bring super star weeks now. 85 is also out for 1 year quarterback Tom Brady and our 3 months and 1 week already, after own Belizean born Raheem Nunez played some 6 times in 2019. 70 Roches to Belize, that will be big and 79 are also out alongside 68. LeBron James is the MVP right for our country. The Houston There are 8 numbers out over 1 year now Texans QB Deshaun Watson and more. Good luck to all buyers, NBA results and predictions wanted to be traded, he wants a there are 3 series that played 7 times In NBA action, the Los Angeles Super Bowl ring. But the owner already. Remember to read your Lakers and LeBron James are says they will not trade their best Psalms: 72-91-63; next week more rolling, they won 3 straight games player. Russell Wilson also is stats. in overtime - Detroit in double OT, demanding a trade from the Seattle then they edged the OKC Thunder Seahawks, he has a Super bBowl ring already in 2015. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers say that they will Pogba is one of the top repeat as champions, their parade on midfielders in the world. The La the waters of Florida was very Liga only has 6 very good teams. Belize will shock Haitians in entertaining when Tom Brady threw In the La Liga in France, PSG has Haiti the Lombardi Trophy to a tight end some competition right now, Lille Local football update and Cameron Brate, from one moving and Lyon are on top at the predictions boat to the other. Brady now has 7 moment; next week more stats. In local football news, there are Super Bowl rings; next week more 10 players from outside that will stats.

Valdez will TKO Berchelt in Atletico Madrid will win the La less than 10 rds. Liga International boxing International football results predictions In International football action, In international boxing news, in back-to-back OT also. Steph in the EPL Manchester City beat ESPN will have 3 nice fights this Curry is putting up some big Tottenham Hotspurs 3 goals to weekend at Las Vegas. There will numbers right now, but his nil, they still have a 5-point lead be a fight on the undercard then supporting cast is not good enough on Manchester United, then the main event will be a right now, they will not make the Leicester City beat Liverpool 3 championship title fight, Mexican playoffs, they have lost 4 straight goals to 1. Liverpool will not win Valdez will TKO Berchelt in less games now. The Dallas Mavericks the EPL again, Jamie Vardy now than 10 rounds of war. The has 12 goals. The EPL is the most welterweight division has the competitive league in the World. most exciting fights. Andre Dirrell will go to war very soon, Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller 23-0- 1-19 KOs will face off against a stiff contender next month; next week more stats. Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 13 Safely Reopening Schools Ministry of Amidst a Pandemic Natural Then parents too have had to But in another light, it is make a 360-degree turn! something that absolutely needs Resources Arguably, the paradigm shifted to be done. Given the modality most significantly under parents’ and the methodology employed to reconstitutes feet. They have had to add a new keep children engaged, home- role to their already expansive based activities cannot substitute repertoire and have now become for or replace school-based its Lands teachers. One cannot dispute the learning. It is as simple as that. fact that without fair warning or Therefore, in order to ensure that Surveyors ample time for adjustments, our children are receiving pound- parents were thrusted into the for-pound pedagogical teacher’s chair and now find instruction, the reopening of Board themselves utilizing the schools is paramount. resources the teachers send to So, how can we in good reason, instruct their own children along while maintaining health and pedagogical lines. safety as top priority, reopen It’s such a beautiful thing to see schools? Well, in my mind, the that it took an entire pandemic to answer to that is simple. We An education task force was allow for school, community and cannot reopen schools unless all formed in an effort to plan the the family to work together in teachers and students have been way forward for education in partnership so as to ensure our inoculated! It’s as clear-cut as Belize. Now this task force is future will continue to bloom that. To seek to reopen schools charged primarily with brightly. It is in this same spirit having not exercised prudence in formulating a proposal to safely of partnership that the Ministry of inoculating all teachers and reopen schools across the Education saw it fit to collaborate students is seriously putting the country. No doubt, the mandate with all stakeholders to formulate country’s future at risk. of such a task force is a much a body tasked with getting our Teachers are craving for schools needed one, as our nation’s children back in school. This is to be reopened. Parents are children have been out of school important, as it will level the clamoring for schools to be since March of 2020, making it plateau between teachers, parents reopened. The children wait in by Dayne Guy almost a year to date. and students. fervent anticipation for schools to As the pandemic forced schools But is this even possible right be reopened. The country knows BELMOPAN, Thurs. Feb. 11, 2021 shut, the teachers all across this now? In this current climate, that schools need to be reopened. The Ministry of Natural country immediately swung into given the still steady cases of It’s something that we all want and Resources, Petroleum, and Mining, action to ensure that our children COVID-19 infections, how do we desire to happen, and to happen in a recent press release, informed were kept meaningfully engaged. reasonably reopen schools with as soon as possible. But let’s be the general public of its newly To date, teachers have steadily little to no risk to our beloved prudent about it and allow greater reconstituted Land Surveyors’ and consistently answered every teachers and our treasured reasoning to prevail. The idea is Board. call and adapted to every change children who are the jewels of this this: whenever the vaccine is made The board’s members are Mr. since, simply to ensure that our land? Well, while the task force readily available in the country, Talbert Brackett, who will be future is being watered and continues to plan and deliberate, seek earnestly to have teachers and serving as the board’s chairman by nurtured. This then forced a learned writer could only in students inoculated so that we may virtue of his position as the Ag. teachers, students and parents good reason assume that the be able to safely reopen schools. Commissioner of Lands and alike to adjust to the times and reopening of schools anytime Our country’s future depends on Survey; and Mr. Kevin Gutierrez, pool their collective resources soon is not going to be the most it! Ag. Principal Surveyor, also serving together for the betterment of the prudent thing to do where health Unchained Reflections Of a ex-officio. children of our country. and safety are concerned. Liberal Pragmatist. The release additionally announced the appointment of three (3) Licensed Surveyors, effective as of 9th February 2021, to serve for a period of two (2) years. These surveyors are Mr. Rolando Rosado, Mr. Leonard Ysaguirre, and Mr. Donald Mckay. The board will be responsible for recommending persons to the Minister who are deemed to be duly qualified to be granted a license to practice land surveying in Belize. The board also will provide advice to the Minister, and will inform him of matters concerning land surveying and its advancements. The goal of the Ministry of Natural Resources is to elevate the standard of land surveying in the country. In its February 11, 2021 press release, the Ministry said, “The Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum and Mining is confident that the LAND SURVEYORS’ BOARD comprises the mix of public/private sector participation expected to achieve and improve on quality surveying and surveyors.” Page 14 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 PM Briceño seeking vaccines from India

the vaccine front, assisting many Belize. low-income, developing countries. In an interview with local media, Recently, under the initiative, the Prime Minister John Briceño said, Indian government donated 100,000 “I just sent a letter to the Prime doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to Minister of India, Prime Minister Barbados, and the country’s media Modi, since India has been assisting is reporting that it will be receiving countries with the vaccine. So I sent a whopping 1,000,000 total doses him a letter and I hope to get a of the COVID-19 vaccine. Dominica response shortly to see if we can get also received about 70,000 jabs of some vaccines from India. I know India’s Covishield vaccine — a that Barbados just got some vaccines donation that was made under the from India just a few days ago. It was auspices of Oxford’s AstraZeneca two days ago Prime Minister Mia program. Motley [of Barbados], called me, As mentioned, Belize is also offering a thousand vaccines.” making an effort to form some sort He shared that the task now is BELIZE CITY, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 vaccines to Belize. India has of partnership with the Indian getting the vaccines from Barbados On Friday, Prime Minister John produced its Covishield COVID-19 government in order to access to Belize. He also shared that a Briceño announced that he had vaccines at its Serum Institute of vaccines from this country. Over the delegation from Mexico, who also written to the government of India India (SII), and under the Vaccine last few weeks, the Indian have access to the COVID-19 to request that India consider Maitri initiative, the country has government donated over a quarter- vaccines, would be visiting the donating a supply of its COVID-19 already become a world leader on million dollars in medication to country in the coming weeks. Politics and the people: a matter of trust

Continued from Page 5 with the Super Bond now even recent general elections. But a Commissioner from political „ much bigger than before. pattern has developed over the subservience, resolve to no And this he accomplished in a 3- Had the Barrow gimmick in years, where the Belizean longer have just an “Acting” pronged offensive. First, he securing the UDP victory in 2015 people have shown that their Chief Justice, empower the called elections early again, a full in fact laid a massive blow trust in their leaders is sincere, Auditor General, etc.). It will year and four months ahead of against the people’s trust? The but not to be taken lightly. The also depend on how effective time, to catch the opposition PUP evidence would seem to economics are a driving force in are their consultations and flat-footed. He got the Belize indicate that the Belizean all elections, and Belizeans are strategies to stop wastage and Sugar Industries (BSI) to delay electorate, having been human; but a factor not to be dramatically improve efficiency for two weeks their hoodwinked in 2015, voted with overlooked, is that even in times in the huge fleet of government announcement of second absolute vengeance when they of crisis, if the Belizean people vehicles and machinery, and in payment figures to the hundreds next got the chance on have trust in their leadership, the collection of revenues, of cane farmers, knowing that November 11, 2020. many of them will hold fast to especially in the very important the very disappointing payments The writing on the wall was the wheel, even though some Customs Department; and how would have seriously hurt the already clear from late 2019; can be swayed by outside forces clear is their vision and how UDP popularity at the polls. And and by the time the Covid-19 and the hardship from difficult sincere are their efforts to then, in the biggest move of all, virus landed in Belize in mid- financial times. embrace and engage the that clinched the game, he March of 2020, it was all over The current government has tremendous reservoir of announced the finale of all for the UDP. begun their administration Belizean talent at home and in problems with BTL and Lord In hindsight, it would have amidst the worst financial the diaspora, eager to join in this Ashcroft, as he, P.M. Barrow had been better for Belize, if the UDP debacle any Belize government struggle for the life of our personally brokered a reportedly had not engineered a “dutty has ever faced; and with Covid- nation… very nice deal that would forever win” in 2015. Almost 19 to deal with too; but it is not Not for the PUP’s sake, but for end the BTL payment saga. With immediately after that election, to be an excuse. The days ahead the sake of all of us, we urge that home-grown electoral when the caneros realized that will not be easy. The test of this and pray, and must all keep our gimmick, the UDP was able to they had been “had,” and the government, whether through eyes open and our hands and turn back the political tide, and very disappointing details of the these upcoming hard times it hearts ready and willing to assist manage an unprecedented third so-called “sweet deal” with the will be able to maintain the trust this present government to consecutive victory, 19-12 seats, Ashcroft payment for BTL were of the Belizean people until the chart a good course that will see in the November 4, 2015 general made public, many Belizean next general election, will the Belizean ship of state elections. voters lost trust in the UDP. And depend on how well they can through these rough and So, the UDP won; and Dean for five long years they waited, convince Belizeans by their turbulent waters ahead. O. Barrow has gone down in while the country’s economy example that we are all in this Regardless of how hard the history as the only post- went from bad to worse. It is together; how much they can times, if we honestly do our duty independence prime minister of recorded, that Belize’s economy demonstrate that they are and stand together as one Belize to record three was already in a recession by willing to share in the pain and people, we will suffer some consecutive general election December of 2019. the necessary financial cut- together, but we will survive victories. Is winning worth it, when all backs; how serious they are together, and we will see a But how sweet was it, and trust is gone? In a landslide about the sacrifices that the well- brighter tomorrow for our how long-lasting? Already, with washout on November 11, off will have to endure so that children. And in that way the oil revenues drying up, and the 2020, Belizean voters dealt the the worst-off of us can at least trust will remain with this Petro Caribe deal soon to be UDP, under new leader Patrick survive; how committed they are government until the next over, and no new blossoming Faber, a 26-5 seats shellacking to implement anti-corruption general elections. If not, then industries generating revenue, at the polls in a general election legislation (invite UNCAC, the Belizean people will know with the days of being “awash that saw an 81.9% voter release the Police what to do. with cash” having all been spent turnout, with the PUP, under on beautiful infrastructure, and new leader John Briceño, with corruption rampant in garnering 59.6% of the votes many ministries, the old cast. Visit us at financial/budget problems were There was new leadership in www.amandala.com.bz coming back like a ton of bricks, both political parties for the Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 15

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Key Responsibilities: Ø Ensure compliance with regulations and procedures. Ø Approve Fractional Agreements. Ø Call customer about their Fractional Agreements. Ø Prepare customer statements. by Dayne Guy [What had happened] is that during Ø Review Production Review Checklist. the clinical trials in South Africa, a Ø Update Refund Tracking System. WASHINGTON, DC. Wed. Feb. nice, small number of participants Ø Daily Production Review for Assigned areas. 10, 2021 of this trial had detected a reduction In a recent conference held by in their efficacy for mild cases, mild Ø Preparation of various reports for submission to PAHO, media personnel continued and moderate cases only. We don’t Accountant. to put forward their countries’ have enough data about the efficacy Ø Liaise with Branch Managers and Sales Executive concerns as it relates to the implications for severe cases; for Team to ensure that all Fractional Agreement implementation, efficiency, and instance, this was only for the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines. variant that is circulating in South Facilities are current. The AstraZeneca vaccine, Africa. We cannot expand this to say especially, received extra scrutiny all the other variants. It’s not the QUALIFICATIONS after a study of the vaccine’s correct way to approach this Ø Minimum - Associate Degree in Business efficiency on a mutant variant of the problem.” virus in South Africa was recorded In conclusion, Dr. Barbosa said, Administration or Accounting with at least one year at 63%. Dr. Jarvas Barbosa, “We need to keep vaccinating and working experience in accounting. Assistant Director of PAHO, in at the same time collecting more responding to those concerns, said, data, to see what is the real effect SKILLS “I think that sometimes we are of this new variance on the vaccine surprised to see that in 2021, after efficacy.” He further warned, “It is Ø Good customer service skills so many decades, that the vaccines not sufficient to have only a Ø Strong work ethic have saved millions of lives; we still vaccine. All the countries need to Ø Ability to work independently and as part of a team ask this question.” have regulatory mechanisms as well Ø Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Barbosa supported the integrity as licenses for importation. of the vaccine saying, “First, it is Countries are invited to share their Ø Excellent time management skills and self- important to say that the vaccines data through the VIRAT tool, a self- motivation that we have now for COVID-19 assessment of all aspects necessary Ø Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word are the outcome of an for a country to be ready for Additional Skills that would be an asset but not required unprecedented movement of the vaccination. Also, we [are] producers and biotech companies requesting countries to send plans Ø Bilingual in English and Spanish that develop vaccines, using many for PAHO’s review, so that we can Ø Valid driver’s license different technological platforms. improve and find gaps. “ These vaccines benefited from other research for all the coronavirus and other viruses that have been DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF refreshed in recent decades.” Limited talk ONLINE APPLICATIONS ISFRIDAY 19 Barbosa added, “Second, the February 2021 vaccines to be approved, they on talent,... needed to show the evidence to the regulators in each country and to Continued from Page 11 ALL ONLINE APPLICATIONS MUST WHO to receive the prequalification „ or the emergence use lease good prime minister, because sohn INCLUDE: authorization. They need to show time a leader haffu lie, and when a the evidence that they, the producer, gud leader mutilate truth, dehn stick TWO RECENT LETTERS OF have good manufacturing to dehn story. Brother, there is capital standards. They need to show that a plenty residing in the vice of well- REFERENCE FROM PAST they have performed the clinical, thought out deception. EMPLOYERS AND A VALID POLICE pre-clinical and clinical trials.” Ah, I don’t have the hair off the Further addressing the horse tail in my hand, but I believe RECORD AstraZeneca vaccine scare, Barbosa two excellent suspicious sources are commented, “It’s not true that at North Front Street and at the split SEND APPLICATIONS AND AstraZeneca vaccine showed a between Albert Street Main and significant reduction for the Albert Street West, where the former SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS TO: variance. No, this is not correct. might be able to give us disclosure about a dishonored IOU and the latter the full story behind an empty our website at: https://aicbelize.com/ Visit KREM at charitable projects contract employment-application www.krembz.com reportedly brokered by a Good Samaritan. Page 16 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 Notes from Cabinet meeting on Feb. 9

Government on matters pertaining to trade policy, negotiation, and information-sharing. Its purpose is to allow communication between the private and public sector; and participation in trading sessions, when appropriate. The Cabinet gave the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology its approval to revisit the Belize Sector Reform Project II. This initiative is a loan project between the Government by Dayne Guy and the Caribbean Development Bank that will provide funding for BELMOPAN, Fri. Feb. 12, 2021 projects that make the primary and In a regular session on Tuesday, secondary school environment more February 9, 2021, the Cabinet, conducive to learning. Given the chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John COVID-19 pandemic, the Cabinet Briceño, discussed measures to make believes the project needs to be Belize more self-sufficient during revisited to ensure optimal benefits times of economic crisis and to Belizean students. COVID-19. The Cabinet also indicated support The Cabinet welcomed the of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Economic Recovery Advisory Foreign Trading, and Immigration’s Team’s mid-term report. This team request for the replacement of the is tasked with recommending and country’s obsolete and outdated engineering sustainable economic passport system with new and activity and protecting and modern electronic passport systems. generating employment as part of an This shift would make the passport effort to emerge from the ongoing system biometrically more secure economic crisis. The nine ministerial and efficient. groups were then assigned to review Finally, in response to the the recommendations and advise on contraction of the local milk their implementation in a report that industry by fifty-three percent is to be submitted to the Cabinet at (53%) in January 2021 due to its meeting at the end of February decreased milk purchases, the for immediate consideration. Cabinet supported the formation of The Cabinet also approved the a working committee to include reinstalment of the National Trade dairy producers to find ways to Negotiating Commission (NTNC). establish the necessary environment The commission, which will consist for the growth of the competitive of representatives of the private dairy industry and to find solutions sector, civil society and government, for optimizing the use of excess will provide guidance and advise the milk on the market.

Deon’s Ginga Atlanta wins UPSL quarterfinal, 1-nil

BELIZE CITY, Sun. Feb. 14, 2021 The Georgia champions, Ginga In their Division One Atlanta will now represent their quarterfinal playoff match in the Southeast Region in the National United Premier Soccer League Finals of the UPSL, which will be (UPSL) yesterday, Saturday, hosted at the Silverbacks Stadium February 13, Belize’s Deon in Atlanta, Georgia from March 5 McCaulay and his Ginga Atlanta to 7. In the semifinals, they will face FC squad got a late second half the Central Region champions. goal via a penalty conversion by Congrats, Deon! Let’s go all the Castro Welder (84’) to secure a 1- way! Belize looks forward to nil victory over OFC Barca, who seeing you on March 25 for our had missed a penalty in the first World Cup qualifying date with half. Haiti. Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 17 Police puzzled by murder of Michael Escalante

shot and thrown out of his Ford Escape was also seen with the homicide continues, since the vehicle by an unidentified vehicle. fingerprints of the believed culprits person/s. Police have since As mentioned, Police’s were picked up by the police’s recovered the vehicle and investigation into this recent forensic team. are currently gathering more evidence in an effort to identify and pursue Escalante’s assailants. Arita Vanzie accident update Escalante’s vehicle was (From page 1) found near the Mahogany Heights area during aerial BELMOPAN, Mon. Feb. 15, reconnaissance. Two of its 2021 windows were blown out — Police are currently as a result, it is believed, of investigating the fatal traffic gunshots. The motive for the accident which claimed the BELMOPAN, Mon. Feb. 15, 2021 murder remains unclear to life of 26-year-old Arita The Belize Police Department is police, since Escalante was found Vanzie on February 9. Vanzie investigating the mysterious murder with cash on his person, and the was killed after being flung of 47-year-old Michael Escalante, vehicle was also found intact, except from a vehicle that crashed which took place on Wednesday, for minor damage. into a culvert near Mile 3 on February 10. His body was found Police also reported that they have the Stann Creek Valley Road. on the side of the road after he was received information that a Grey At this time, an initial investigation by police is leading investigators to believe that speeding might Minister Courtenay condemns... have been one of the contributing factors that caused the terrible accident. Vanzie’s body on Monday, February Continued from Page 1 strengthens the existing edifice of „ international law by bolstering the Reports are at this point indicating 15. Results from the autopsy will be that 21-year-old Damion Usher was international law, for our security and tenets of the Universal Declaration of used to determine whether Usher, who protection.” Human Rights and the International driving the car that was involved in has already been served with a Notice the collision. Usher and the three This tactic of Arbitrary Detention Covenant on Civil and Political of Intended Prosecution, will be other occupants of the vehicle who is commonly used by some countries Rights,” Minister Courtenay said. arrested and charged. to coerce other nations into Hon. Minister Courtenay concluded survived the accident have since been At this time, it is not believed that released from the Southern Regional compliance with a given directive, with a call to action, pleading to the alcohol consumption was a factor in Hospital. to silence critics, and to suppress states who have not yet signed the the accident; however, blood samples dissent. Governments in agreement declaration, to do so in order to The police have scheduled a post- were taken from all the survivors. mortem that will be conducted on Arita with the declaration, are expected to safeguard foreigners’ human rights. Police investigations continue. hold other countries accountable, “And I call upon States that have ensuring that they comply with the not done so to join us by signing onto international law in an effort to this declaration. For us, one person protect the rights of local and wrongly detained is too much. One PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: Apartment international citizens. day arbitrary detention is too long,” Reef Village Estates, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize “We welcome the Declaration as it Hon. Courtenay said. BY ORDER of the Supreme Court, Licensed Auctioneer Fitzgerald A. Joseph will sell the following Condo UnitON SITE at Mara Laguna Belize’s passport system is formerly Reef Village Estates, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize] on Saturday,27thFebruary, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.Please note that Social Distancing Protocol will be in full effect and the failing, says CEO Dr. Middleton wearing of mask will be mandatory. Continued from „Page 1 antiquated. We can’t get parts for REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL them, so we have to do that as soon San Pedro 7 5227(H1)101 since expired, and this has also as possible. Hopefully, we could get caused the other important pieces it very shortly. I don’t want to say a of equipment needed to carry out timeline. I don’t want to speak out the process to become non- of turn. But it is something that has functional. At this time the CEO and to be done with urgency. The his team from inside the Ministry previous government knew that was are working tirelessly to implement happening.” a new e-passport system, before He blamed the past UDP this current system, totally administration’s failure to address collapses. the problems at the Ministry of In an interview with local media, Immigration for the current Prime Minister John Briceño said dilapidated state of the system and that the matter has to be resolved emphasized that having a new Being atwo bedroom apartment two baths with a master bedroom, as soon as possible, but was unable system is an absolute necessity, living room, dining room, kitchen, laundry room and storage room to give a definite timeline for the rather than a luxury. with a front and rear verandah situated at the Mara Laguna formerly implementation of the new e- Recently, Cabinet supported a Reef Village Estates, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, passport system. He did share that request from the Ministry Belizethe freehold property of Messrs. Reef Village EstatesLimited at the country is unable to manage the responsible for Immigration for the 11:00 a.m. current system and that its replacement of the current system, breakdown could present some which they call “outdated and security risk for the country. obsolete”, with a “new and modern” TERMS: STRICTLY CASH During an interview with local e-passport system which will FITZGERALD JOSEPH media, PM Briceño stated, “The include biometric data. TELEPHONE: 601-2039 present system is crashing. There are The Government of Belize hopes no licenses, no more licenses to keep that this new system will bring Email: [email protected] that system going. The equipment is greater security and efficiency. Page 18 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021 Política y el pueblo:...

Continua de página 8 es sincera, pero que no debe „ tomarse a la ligera. La economía cosecha propia, el UDP pudo hacer es una fuerza impulsora en todas retroceder la marea política y las elecciones, y los beliceños son lograr una tercera victoria humanos; Pero un factor que no Cuando era un niño creciendo en en nuestras vidas. Sí, a la mayoría consecutiva sin precedentes, 19- debe pasarse por alto es que, Honduras Británica en la década de de nosotros nos gustan, incluso 12 escaños, en las elecciones incluso en tiempos de crisis, si el 1950, nuestra gente no calificaba a atesoramos, las cosas materiales generales del 4 de noviembre de pueblo beliceño tiene confianza en los miembros de nuestra comunidad (bienes de consumo), pero creo que, 2015. su liderazgo, muchos de ellos se por la cantidad de dinero y en términos generales, somos aferrarán al timón, aunque algunos Entonces, ganó el UDP; y Dean posesiones que tenían. Quizás yo era personas de los Diez Mandamientos. O. Barrow ha pasado a la historia puedan ser influenciados por como el único primer ministro de fuerzas externas y las dificultades demasiado joven para apreciar las Bueno, al menos así era cuando era Belize posterior a la de difíciles tiempos financieros. sutilezas del sistema de clasificación niño. La llegada de la televisión por independencia en registrar tres El gobierno actual ha humana en nuestra sociedad en la cable estadounidense hace casi victorias consecutivas en las comenzado su administración en Ciudad de Belize, pero así me cuarenta años ha contaminado los elecciones generales. medio de la peor debacle parecía en ese entonces. valores de nuestra generación más Pero, ¿qué tan dulce fue y qué financiera que jamás haya Calificábamos a las personas de joven, pero estas generaciones más tan duradero? Ya, con los ingresos enfrentado un Gobierno de Belize; Belize por su orgullo y desempeño jóvenes tendrán que hablar por sí y con Covid-19 para abordar del petróleo agotándose, y el social/familiar, su excelencia en su mismas. acuerdo de Petro Caribe que también; pero no debe ser una pronto terminaría, y sin nuevas excusa. Los días venideros no trabajo, en la educación, los deportes ¿Cómo llegaron los beliceños a industrias florecientes que serán fáciles. La prueba de este y las artes, y sus vibras personales, este agujero en el que le debemos generaran ingresos, con los días gobierno, si a través de estos por así decirlo. tanto dinero a Lord Ashcroft? de estar “inundados de efectivo” tiempos difíciles que se avecinan Hoy en Belize, y me parece que Comenzó con el gobernante Partido habiéndose gastado en hermosa podrán mantener la confianza del ha sido así durante tres o cuatro Unido del Pueblo (PUP) a principios infraestructura y con la corrupción pueblo beliceño hasta las décadas, calificamos a los beliceños de la década de 1990, pero hay desenfrenada en muchos próximas elecciones generales, casi estrictamente por la cantidad de razones para creer que el Partido dependerá de qué tan bien puedan ministerios, los viejos problemas dinero que tienen. Realmente no Demócrata Unido (United financieros/presupuestarios convencer a los beliceños con su estaban regresando como una ejemplo de que todos estamos importa cómo obtuvieron su dinero: Democratic Party, UDP), por más tonelada de ladrillos, con el súper juntos en esto; cuánto pueden en 2021 uno no califica si no tiene santurrón que era su retórica, que bono ahora mucho más grande demostrar que están dispuestos a dinero. gobernó de 2008 a 2020, realmente que antes. compartir el dolor y los recortes Cuando se trataba de los jugó algunos juegos con Ashcroft, ¿El truco de Barrow para financieros necesarios; cuán chanchullos en la década de 1950, que lo benefició mucho más de lo asegurar la victoria del UDP en serios son los sacrificios que los había actividades como la que fue bueno para La Joya. 2015 había sido, de hecho, un ricos tendrán que soportar para prostitución, el juego, prestamos En términos generales, incluso que los más desfavorecidos golpe masivo contra la confianza depredadores, etc., pero la respetable hoy, a los beliceños nos gusta actuar de la gente? La evidencia parecería puedan al menos sobrevivir; cuán indicar que el electorado beliceño, comprometidos están con la sociedad de Belize no ponía a esas como si el dinero no fuera el factor después de haber sido engañado implementación de la legislación personas en un pedestal, sin importar más poderoso en nuestras vidas. en 2015, votó con absoluta anticorrupción (invitar a la CNUCC, cuánto dinero tuvieran. Una vez Pero seamos honestos. El dinero es venganza cuando tuvo la liberar al Comisionado de Policía más, así me pareció a mí. Pero muy, muy importante, y hay oportunidad el 11 de noviembre de la subordinación política, recuerden, yo era de una familia de consideraciones futuras y presentes. de 2020. resolver no tener como solo clase media y de un vecindario (las Las personas aprovechan las La escritura en la pared ya “interino” al presidente del calles Regent West y West Canal) oportunidades para asegurar su estaba clara desde finales de Tribunal Supremo, empoderar al que era de clase media mezclada con futuro, para asegurarse de que a 2019; y cuando el virus Covid-19 Auditor General, etc.). También aterrizó en Belize a mediados de dependerá de cuán efectivas sean algo de la base. A un par de cuadras, medida que envejecen tienen marzo de 2020, todo había sus consultas y estrategias para en la mayoría de las calles como suficientes activos para hacer frente terminado para el UDP. detener el desperdicio y mejorar George y West, probablemente había a las diversas responsabilidades de En retrospectiva, hubiera sido drásticamente la eficiencia en la más gente de la base que de clase la vida. Hay algunos beliceños muy mejor para Belize, si el UDP no enorme flota de vehículos y media. Recuerden una vez más: yo talentosos que se convirtieron en hubiera diseñado una “victoria maquinaria del gobierno, y en la era un niño. activos de Ashcroft, y esos beliceños fea” en 2015. Casi recaudación de ingresos, De lo que quiero hablar hoy es del han ayudado enormemente a inmediatamente después de esa especialmente en el dinero, y la razón por la que quiero jodernos. Sin embargo, no los elección, cuando los cañeros se importantísimo Departamento de dieron cuenta de que habían sido Aduanas; y cuán clara es su visión hablar sobre el dinero es debido a acusaré ni los condenaré. Lo que diré engañados, y los detalles muy y cuán sinceros son sus esfuerzos Lord Michael Ashcroft, y cómo ha es que el hombre Ashcroft hizo un decepcionantes del llamado “trato para abrazar e involucrar la usado el dinero para encadenarnos excelente trabajo al identificar y dulce” con Ashcroft sobre el pago enorme reserva de talento a los beliceños en una especie de reclutar lo mejor de nuestro talento por BTL se hicieron públicos, beliceño en casa y en la diáspora, esclavitud por deudas que sugiere beliceño. muchos votantes beliceños ansiosos por unirse a esta lucha que nuestro tiempo en la lucha por Déjenme contarles una historia. perdieron la confianza en el UDP. por la vida de nuestra nación... el autogobierno en las décadas de Hace algunos años, cuando Ashcroft Y durante cinco largos años No por el bien del PUP, sino por 1960 y 1970 fue en vano. A solía visitar Belize y pasaba su rato esperaron, mientras la economía el bien de todos nosotros, del país iba de mal en peor. Se instamos y oramos, y todos principios de la década de 1960, con en el restaurante de Jeremy Spooner registra que la economía de Belize debemos mantener nuestros ojos la adquisición de la entonces en la Calle North Front, Ashcroft le ya estaba en recesión en abiertos y nuestras manos y empresa monopolista de dijo al gran finado Kareem Clarke, diciembre de 2019. corazones listos y dispuestos a telecomunicaciones en vísperas de nuestro talentoso reportero del ¿Vale la pena ganar cuando toda ayudar a este gobierno actual a las elecciones generales de junio de periódico, que quería hablar la confianza se ha perdido? En un trazar un buen rumbo que verá al 1993, Lord Ashcroft, cuando conmigo y que yo no debería derrumbe aplastante el 11 de barco beliceño de estado navegar hablamos de dinero, se ha preocuparme por la “riña” que él y noviembre de 2020, los votantes a través de estas aguas convertido en el Rey de Belize en Kremandala habían tenido. beliceños repartieron al UDP, bajo turbulentas y agitadas por delante. el nuevo líder Patrick Faber, una Independientemente de cuán 2021. Ignoré el mensaje, no porque sea paliza de 26-5 escaños en las urnas difíciles sean los tiempos, si Lo que me preocupa es cuántos más justo que cualquiera que Lord en una elección general que vio honestamente cumplimos con beliceños básicamente decentes Ashcroft haya comprado, sino una participación de votantes del nuestro deber y nos mantenemos abrazan públicamente su reino, o no porque había vivido el tiempo 81,9%, con el PUP, bajo el nuevo unidos como un solo pueblo, tienen absolutamente nada que decir suficiente para saber que Ashcroft y líder John Briceño, obteniendo el sufriremos un poco juntos, pero sobre la terrible crisis financiera en yo éramos oponentes, oponentes 59,6% de los votos emitidos. sobreviviremos juntos y veremos la que Lord Michael Ashcroft, quien fundamentales e inveterados, a pesar Hubo un nuevo liderazgo en un mañana más brillante para ha dicho repetidamente que nos ama de que su personalidad es muy ambos partidos políticos para las nuestros hijos. Y de esa forma la recientes elecciones generales. confianza permanecerá en este profundamente a los beliceños, nos agradable. Pero a lo largo de los años se ha gobierno hasta las próximas mantiene como rehenes. A aquellos de nuestros beliceños desarrollado un patrón en el que elecciones generales. De lo La mayoría de los beliceños que han sido seducidos, les diré que el pueblo beliceño ha demostrado contrario, el pueblo beliceño sabrá buscamos dar la impresión de que que su confianza en sus líderes qué hacer. el dinero no es el factor dominante Vea página „ 19 Tuesday, February 16, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 19 Barrow appears before Commission of Inquiry

Continued from Page 1 He added, “As far as I can recollect, In his presentation, he also revealed considering sale of assets. „ 95% of vehicles sold by the that former Attorney General/Minister Marshalleck added, ‘Section 23 of particular vehicle was in running Government were sold in consequence of National Security and current Lead the Finance and Audit Reform Act condition the Ministry or Department of the procedure just described.” Opposition Senator, Michael says, ‘the Minister may make would indicate that it would run in fits Before the November 2020 general Peyrefitte was also permitted to buy regulations for giving better effect to and starts,” Barrow shared. elections, the Financial Secretary furniture that was specially designed the provision of the act and for He explained that the government wrote a letter to the Cabinet Secretary for his use within the Ministry. The prescribing anything that needs to be ministries or departments would then and various heads of Ministries furniture and an iPad were also prescribed, and these specifically hand the vehicle over to the Vehicle informing them that the sales of the recommended for sale by the Vehicle refer to proper use and standards and Care Unit, which would then make a assets would be paused, given the Care Unit, he said. principles for use and management of request that it be sold as a form of asset fallout resulting from the COVID-19 The chairman of the Commission of public money and financial assets and recovery, in those cases where vehicles pandemic. Inquiry, Andrew Marshalleck S.C., liabilities. “ were considered unserviceable. He noted, however, that at the end pointed out that these instances Marshalleck then asked Hon. “It may have been that in some cases, of their term, former Deputy Prime indicate that the procedure laid out by Barrow, “No regulation was ever departments and ministries were a little Minister Hugo Patt requested to buy the former Prime Minister was not prescribed regulating the sale of too eager to treat vehicles as the vehicle that he had used during his strictly adhered to. He also noted that assets?” unserviceable and to write them off,” term in office. According to Barrow, the Finance and Audit Reform Act lays Former Prime Minister Dean Barrow acknowledged. he gave oral approval for this sale, out mandatory tendering procedures to Barrow replied, “Not as far I know, Hon. Barrow also mentioned that the given the “special circumstance.” be used by the Government when Sir. No.” Head of the Vehicle Care Unit would However, Barrow emphasized that he sign off on sales after getting the never gave any written, expressed recommendation from the Financial approval, since the customs evaluation COVID-19 Update Secretary. He went on to inform the was not done in that particular case. commissioners that he would then enter According to Barrow, there were Continued from „Page 1 recoveries were recorded in that time the process as the last person to approve only two other instances in which he period, and 9 active hospitalizations the sales recommended by the first two decided to break away from their daily infographic reports are of persons infected with the virus officials before those sales were position to retain the assets of the recording new cases in the single were listed. Two of those persons executed. But first, he would, in most Government, and these exceptions digits in all the districts, and COVID- needed intensive care. No death was instances receive a customs valuation were made in response to purchase 19-related deaths have become far recorded during those two days. of the high-end vehicles in proper requests that were made by Dr. Carla less frequent. The Government of On February 13, a total of 11 new working condition, he said. Barnett and the former President of the Belize continues to urge all Belizean cases were identified from a batch He told the commissioners that in Court of Appeal, Sir Manuel Sosa. citizens to strictly adhere to all the of 165 tests conducted by officials. some special instances, some public He said that Dr. Carla Barnett prevention and isolation measures that Three recoveries were recorded, and servants and ministers would request requested to purchase the vehicle she are in place. fortunately, again, no death was to buy the vehicles assigned to them had been using after she made a final Currently, officials from the recorded. The country recorded zero during the period in which they held decision to not return to public office. Ministry of Health and Wellness are fatalities as well on February 12, their particular post, and he revealed He said that she pointed out that she finalizing the COVID-19 vaccination when 29 new cases were identified that they would also at times request to was allowed to purchase her vehicle plan that will be rolled out across the from a batch of 666 tests conducted. buy the laptops or work stations that under the past PUP administration country following an education Internationally, at this time, they used during their time of service. when there had been a change of campaign. During the last sitting of the countries across the world are He explained that this is a longstanding government. Hon. Barrow also House of Representatives, Minister pushing forward to vaccinate their tradition in the Government, which was pointed out that former President of Chebat pointed out that vaccines will populations. Recently, AstraZeneca inherited and had even been carried out the Court of Appeal, Sir Manuel Sosa, soon arrive in the country, through our has announced that they will be just prior to the start of his party’s term had requested to purchase the vehicle partnership with the COVAX facility. conducting separate new trials for the in office in February 2008. that he had used for the past 12 years. In a recent interview with local UK, Brazil, and South African “Part of what was sent to me would Former Prime Minister Barrow media, Prime Minister John Briceño variants of the virus. The inoculation be an indication, either implicit or claimed that those were the only two mentioned that he had reached out to program roll-out was stalled in South explicit, that they were not going to do vehicle transactions he specifically the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Africa after officials on the ground any better than the particular offer or and explicitly authorized after the Modi, in an effort to access even more found the AstraZeneca vaccine to be offers received. Vicente would, in fact, policy to pause the sales of assets was doses of life-saving vaccine. Of note, somewhat ineffective in preventing again either explicitly or implicitly adopted. In the instance of the sale of India has become the country leading transmission of the variant in that certify that we were selling for the best the vehicle to Hugo Patt, the Prime the charge to ensure access to vaccines country. price that we could obtain in the Minister outlined that he had given no across the world through the As of February 15, 2021, according circumstances,” Hon. Barrow said. expressed approval. distribution of a vaccine that was to WHO, there have been a total of produced at one of its own local 108,579,352 confirmed cases of facilities. COVID-19, including 2,396,408 From the Publisher The recent COVID-19 data in deaths. DPP reviewing... Belize shows that there have been a The Ministry of Health and en Español total of 12,175 cases of COVID-19 Wellness in Belize continues to urge Continued from „Page 1 in the country since the start of the all citizens and visitors to wear a Continua de página „ 18 complaint to the Belize Police pandemic in Belize. Of that number, face mask properly in public, and no los condenaré. Pero les insto a Department concerning what he 194 cases remain active across the also to maintain consistent physical que consideren nuestra situación en referred to as the prolonged abuse and country and about 11,668 persons distancing, avoid social gatherings, Belize a la luz de dónde venimos, misuse of public resources by the have recovered. Our fatality count and wash and sanitize hands often. desde 1838 y los días de BEC. former Minister of Works, Rene stands at 313, which equates to a case Also, the Ministry has officially Estamos en mal estado. Debemos Montero, who allegedly used these fatality rate of 2.57%. At this time, begun their online vaccination education campaign. Members of the demasiado dinero. ¿Qué hicimos resources to carry out development on 83 women and 111 men are actively infected with COVID-19 in Belize. community are asked to support their con el dinero? ¿Dónde está? his personal properties. The former CEO in that Ministry, Errol Gentle, Cumulative data from February 14 efforts by liking and sharing official El sábado por la mañana, bajo el and 15 show that 30 new cases were information from the Ministry of calor del sol, vi a un hombre negro was also accused of being involved in illegal activities. discovered after a total of 596 tests Health and Wellness’s social media tendido de espaldas en medio de la Reports are that the initial were conducted. A total of 42 pages. carretera Philip Goldson, donde la investigation of police into these carretera se encuentra con el cruce alleged abuses has been completed merits criminal proceedings against heavy-duty equipment was found in his de Vista del Mar. Tenía las piernas and forwarded to the office of the the former Works Minister, Rene farm.” dobladas. Dos policías venían de la Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). Montero, and his CEO, Errol Gentle. PM Briceño shared that various cercana caseta de policía para verlo. The legal merits of this investigation During an interview with local government employees have come Pensé a mí mismo, queridos, este are now under review by the DPP, media, Prime Minister John Briceño forward and have given evidence and es un momento de duelo. En Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, S.C. commented, “the allegations were that affidavits that confirmed the misuse palabras del finado y gran Mister After the DPP’s review of the he was using government employees of the Ministry’s resources. Program: “Nadie quiere verme compiled police report, she will working his farms, government diesel, We will continue to follow this ascender”. Nadie. determine whether or not the evidence government pickups; even government issue. Page 20 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, February 16, 2021