Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 1

NO. 3453 CITY, TUESDAY, APRIL 20, 2021 (20 PAGES) $1.00 Unions block traffic on highways The Public Service Union released its schedule for the first week of protest activities after a seemingly fruitless meeting with Government officials. Nestor Vasquez

BELIZE CITY, Mon. Apr. 19, 2021 problems” event passes at 89 This morning, union members by the PSU, this staged a blockade of the Haulover was the unions’ Bridge to start their week of first protest demonstration activities against the activity today, and . A minivan was it set off a series parked on the bridge, and teachers, of acts of protest wearing their signature green “teechaz that are to occur got yo back” tee-shirts, participated countrywide in all in what appeared to be a public municipalities. pantomime — pretending to be mechanics attempting to fix the van, Please„ turn to as the line of vehicles grew longer. Dubbed an “engine, and mechanical Page 4 Deputy Customs BNTU members Comptroller Haylock , Mon. Apr. 19, 2021 picket countrywide loses in court Late this evening, the United Democratic Party released a statement announcing the passing of one of its Teachers formed a picket line in front of Digi and Smart showrooms party’s founders, Nestor Vasquez. “Net countrywide, demanding that they pay taxes owed to the Government. Vasquez,” as he was affectionally known to generations of UDP party supporters and Belizean citizens, was 89 years old. Please turn to„Page 13 Auxiliary nurse, BELIZE City, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 39, gunned down A ruling has been issued in regard to the case brought by (See story on page 4) Deputy Comptroller of Customs Ian Haylock against the Government of Please turn to„Page 3 BELIZE CITY, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 position. The stalemate between the The coalition of public-sector government of Belize and the public unions formed to first consult with Union leaders and sector unions over salary cuts seems the Government on the financial to have become a tense face-off, with situation of the country and then to GoB meet again both parties taking their corner, unwilling to budge from their Please turn to„Page 16 (See story on page 13)

(See story on San Pedro girl, 18, dies in RTA page 2) Page 2 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021 18 BTL employees San Pedro girl, 18, made redundant dies in RTA (From page 1)

of an 18-year-old girl, Bianca Reyes. According to reports, Reyes was in a golf cart with three occupants when the driver of the cart, 27-year-old Miriam Rodriguez, who is reportedly Reyes’ sister-in-law, lost control of the golf cart, which then overturned. Reyes was reportedly flung onto the road when the cart flipped, and was gravely injured. According to the police, Rodriguez was driving under the influence of alcohol and has since been detained and charged with BELIZE CITY, Mon. Apr. 19, 2021 even with these measures, the manslaughter by negligence and driving In a press release dated Monday, financial position of the organization while under the influence, among other April 19, the Belize Communications had not sufficiently improved. They by Dayne Guy charges. Workers Union (BCWU) expressed thus decided to undertake a Reyes was pronounced dead around its sympathy to 18 union members redundancy exercise to “improve SAN PEDRO, Ambergris Caye, Fri. 12:30 the next morning. The two other who lost their jobs following a efficiency and the continuous Apr. 16, 2021 occupants of the cart were also injured, redundancy exercise carried out by reduction in operations.” On Friday, April 16, 2021, the San but are currently in a stable condition Belize Telemedia Limited. An executive of the Belize Pedro police responded to reports of a and are being treated at the Otto According to KREM News, these Communication Workers Union said golf cart accident that caused the death Rodriguez Polyclinic. persons were all employees of the that the exercise was carried out in telecommunications company. compliance with the Labour Act and The release said that the union and the workers’ Collective Bargaining Athletes call for the company entered a cost- Agreement. optimization initiative, which “The Executive of BCWU included an agreement that union expresses its sympathy and reopening of sports members who are employed by the recognizes the impact this exercise company would forego some benefits has causes its members. However, BELIZE CITY, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 and accept the deferment of a few they would like to assure their Athletes took to social media in near other benefits, in addition to the membership they have exhausted all outrage last week when the new Covid- freezing of their salaries. options to circumvent this exercise,” 19 regulations were released by the However, the company found that the release from the union said. Government of Belize. Casinos were reopened, while no amendments were made to relax the restrictions imposed on various sporting activities. Association of JPs assists “My fellow athletes, let’s all show up to the casino in our national team or club jerseys with a cigar for the disabled persons reopening, and since we can only be together as a team at the casino around will include wheelchairs, push- the gambling table, why not play some walkers and crutches, among other poker.” This was the Facebook post items. In addition, the association is made by Bryton Codd, a member of scheduling a turkey dinner sale to raise the National Volleyball Team, which funds for shipping costs. led to a joint press conference with four drafted and will present on April 20 a In an interview with Love News, sporting associations and an ultimate Cabinet paper for the resumption of the president of the Justice of the reaction from the Minister of Sports, some sporting activities in the country. Peace Association, Mr. Adrian Hon. Kevin Bernard. The Minister shared, “I, for one, “Danny” Madrid, said, “We’re On Friday, April 16, members of and I know I have the support of many working closely with the Attorney the volleyball, basketball, Brazilian others agree, that we must bring back General’s Ministry. We have started jujitsu, and softball associations some level of sports in the area of to bring in items for people that we issued a joint call for the reopening of training. It’s also part of Health and know need them, like wheelchairs, at least training in their respective Wellness.” by Dayne Guy walkers, medical equipment and so disciplines. He shared that while contact sports forth. And this week we’ll be giving During the press conference, Codd may be the most difficult to reintroduce, BELIZE CITY, Belize, Fri. Apr. 16, out these things to the needy, to told local media that athletes have he believes that there are ways in which 2021. people through the JP Association and suffered in many ways since the start athletes can participate in those sports Over two hundred Belizeans with JPs.” of the pandemic, and this has affected in a non-contact form for training disabilities will have access to Madrid says the role of a Justice both their game and everyday life purposes. He said that his Ministry was equipment that will improve their of the Peace extends beyond signing tremendously. waiting on the approval from the quality of life following a joint documents. JPs should render “It is no secret that we have merely Cabinet before they made a formal donation by the Justice of the Peace assistance to those in need. He said, been surviving throughout the time announcement. Association of Belize in partnership “Our motto is not only to sign span of this pandemic. Like all others According to Hon. Bernard, his with the Justice of the Peace Chapter documents but to help people, and we must return to thriving, whether that Ministry currently has a top 10 list that of Los Angeles. we have found a way that Belizeans is by means of getting our athletes they will review, inclusive of golfing Thus far, the association has raised who are crippled, and the necessity vaccinated or allowing us to train with and rugby. Guidelines will be put in over four thousand dollars to be used for wheelchairs and walkers; there strict health protocols and place to carry out a phased reopening to boost accessibility for persons is a demand for it, so that’s the reason regulations,” he told local media. until sporting activities can fully living with disabilities. The equipment why we’re working on that.” For the Government’s part, Minister resume, said Minister Bernard. Kevin Bernard said that they have “I know it’s going to take some time, received various proposed protocols but I ask our athletes, and I thank them for reopening different sporting for their patience because I know every - The best there is! disciplines from the various athletic time the regulations are changed it is associations. He told local media that focused mainly on the health issue,” at this time, his Ministry has already Hon. Bernard told the media. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 3 Police officers dread salary cuts, says Police Association

BELIZE CITY, Mon. Apr. 19, 2021 without funds to cover family dissatisfaction within the A letter from the Belize Police expenses such as the purchase of ranks of the police, causing Association to the Minister of Home groceries, medication, and other a decline in the performance Affairs, Hon. , was essentials. of their duties. leaked to the media early today. The The release stated that, on average, “A three (3) year 10% letter, which was sent both to the police officers make around $2,000 salary cut and hold on Commissioner of Police, Chester monthly, and many have to work increments may cause police Williams, and Minister Musa, stated added hours on ‘Special Duty” in officers to resort to illicit that after countrywide consultations order to make ends meet each month. and unethical behaviors. The with police officers, the association A 10% salary cut would result in an board is not being found that the predominant sentiment average of $200 being sliced off pessimistic but it is the realm of officers is that a salary cut would police officers’ salaries. of reality. This will put the place “grave financial strain” on “A three-year 10% salary cut and in them. hold on increments may promote disrepute and may The letter is dated March 15, 2021, hesitancy amongst police officers deteriorate the relationship shared hold on increments is not the only and was sent by the Central Board of when performing their duties. It is a between the department and the solution and it should be the last the Belize Police Association. The very difficult task for managers and public,” stated the letter. option,” the letter stated. letter also mentioned that the salary supervisors to keep police officers The letter further posited that the The association says the cuts may also cause police officers motivated, and it will be even harder police officers do not deserve salary Government must first stop the abuse to be hesitant in the performance of to motivate police officers to perform cuts, since they work overtime and of government vehicles after working their duties and may even cause some their duties at an exemplary level if even on holidays without receiving hours and reduce extravagant to resort to illicit and unethical their salaries are cut,” the release extra compensation. Ministry spending before it looks at behavior within the ranks of the stated. The letter also stated that the police cutting the salaries of officers. department. It added that the main reward officers who are members of the The letter goes on to say, “If the The association is fearful that the police looked forward to each year association, understand the dire proposed three (3) years 10% salary salary cut will tip the financial scale was the increment that is tacked on financial position the government is cut and hold on increments is of police officers, many of whom to their salary. The release noted that currently in, and have quietly unavoidable then the board is willing have fixed commitments to lending if this is paused for three years as accepted the increment freeze for the to meet with you and discuss institutions and are many times left scheduled, it will cause further period 2019-2020. alternative solutions to aid police “We believe that the proposed officers to cope with their financial three (3) years 10% salary cut and strains.” Deputy Customs Comptroller Haylock loses in court U.S. Embassy Man drowns warns visitors in Grace Bank Continued from „Page 1 to Belize of Belize. The case was part of an effort by Haylock to challenge the civil unrest legality of the appointment of the current Comptroller of Customs and to assert that he instead should have by Dayne Guy been appointed to that post. Supreme Court Judge Westmin , Thurs. Apr. 15, 2021 James, however, delivered his The U.S. Embassy in Belize has ruling in favor of the Government issued an advisory to Americans of Belize. The judicial review who are currently in the country, in application was first made around expectation to be consulted before which it urges them to be vigilant the start of this year, when the the appointment of Leslie to the due to possible union demonstrations Briceño administration appointed post. The government’s attorneys, that may take place in the coming the new Comptroller of Customs, led by Senior Counsel Godfrey week. The Embassy advises Estelle Leslie. Smith, contended, however, that American citizens to avoid areas Leslie, who is the first female Haylock did not have the legal right where demonstrations or protests officer to be appointed to that to be consulted by the government are likely to occur and to use highest rank within the Customs in regards to the appointment or the alternative routes wherever Department, was one of three senior removal of the position from under possible. by Dayne Guy customs officers qualified for the the control of the PSC. As a result of the Government of appointment. The government’s attorneys Belize’s decision to proceed with GRACE BANK, , Sun. Ian Haylock, a career customs contended that he would have had pay cuts and increment freezes, Apr. 18, 2021 officer for 33 years, claimed that to have been promised the position. several public sector unions are On Sunday, April 18, 2021, the he was passed over by the new Otherwise, there would have had planning industrial action. On Friday, police responded to reports that a administration, despite being one of to have been a policy document members of the Belize National male person presumably drowned in the most senior and highest which put him next in line for the Teachers Union picketed in front of Grace Bank Village. According to qualified for the post. appointment, or a longstanding the offices of the country’s two major family members of the man, Herwin His claim, brought by attorneys custom would have had to have telecommunications companies. Godoy, they were swimming in the Senior Counsel and been in place which mandated that Other scheduled acts of protests to river around 4:00 p.m. that day when Darrell Bradley, was based on his he be consulted in order for the law be carried out by the unions include he attempted to swim across. assertion that he was denied his of legitimate expectation to be the possible blocking of traffic on When he was near the middle of right to be consulted during the applicable in his action. the major highways, a boycott of fuel the river, Godoy reportedly cried for government’s process of selecting Judge Westmin James agreed stations around Belize and classroom help as he started to sink deeper into the person who would be appointed with the Government’s arguments walkouts, among others. the water. Godoy soon sank under the to the post of Comptroller, and also, after some weeks of review and The U.S. Embassy of Belize water and did not resurface, said his on questions surrounding delivered his ruling last week via advises US visitors to Belize to family members. government’s decision to remove teleconference. monitor local media reports for The Belize Coast Guard and the appointment from under the The claimant has 21 days to updates and to review personal Godoy’s family are currently purview of the Public Service apply to the Court of Appeal if he security plans. They are advised to conducting searches in the area. Commission (PSC). decides to appeal the decision. At remain conscious of their Godoy is presumed to have drowned, Haylock’s attorneys attempted to this time there is no indication surroundings and maintain a high but the authorities have not yet prove that he had a legitimate whether he will do so. level of personal security. recovered his body. Page 4 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021 9-year-old farmer gets calf Centaur says they from Hon. Mai owe no taxes

ORANGE WALK, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 The release stated that the company The Belize National Teachers Union, has paid its taxes and fees due to the BLACKMAN EDDY, , A release from the Government of in addition to demanding that Belize Government of Belize in full as of April Mon. Apr. 19, 2021 Belize Press Office stated, “During the Telemedia Limited and Speednet 15th, 2021, just one day before the A young farmer, 9-year-old Brayden handing over, Minister Mai Communication Ltd. (SMART) pay the issuance of the BNTU’s accusations Gillett, received a calf from the encouraged Brayden to continue to outstanding taxes which it says that about outstanding taxes and the release Minister of Agriculture this morning pursue his dream of being a cowboy these companies owe to GOB, also of this statement. in a brief handing-over ceremony. and to become a successful cattle called out Centaur Communication Ltd., The release states that the company Brayden was raising a calf in his farmer, in order to create employment a cable and internet company owned has also provided free cable and home village of Blackman Eddy which and contribute to the development of by the family of Prime Minister, Hon. internet access to schools in Corozal, was stolen sometime last year. the country.” John Briceño, for owing taxes to the Orange Walk, and the Belize Districts, Minister Mai heard his story and Also present at the ceremony were Government of Belize. and continues to offer reduced internet decided to give the young farmer the the chairman of Blackman Eddy, Kano In response, the cable company rates to students. young calf, which the minister Green, as well as members of the quickly released a statement on Friday “As a socially responsible company, obtained through a collaboration with Blackman Eddy village council, and in which it asserted that the union’s Centaur Communication has and will the Mennonite community in Shipyard. residents of the village. allegation is false. continue to provide support to students, “Centaur Communications respects educators, and schools,” the release the right of the BNTU to take industrial said. Auxiliary nurse, 39, action. The information shared Centaur is one of those companies regarding any non-payment of overdue that have found themselves in the taxes to the Government of Belize is crosshairs of the BNTU for allegedly gunned down false,” said the company in the release. slacking off on payment of taxes. (From page 1) by Dayne Guy the media, “Information is that he was on [Magazine Road yard] when a male Unions block traffic BELIZE CITY, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 person came and fired shots at him, On Friday, April 16, an auxiliary causing the fatal injuries.” Romero on highways nurse was targeted and gunned down further said that they believe that on Magazine Road sometime after Requeña was the intended target. Continued from Page 1 out to protest in their yellow shirts. 3:00 p.m. He was identified as 39- Investigations are currently „ In circular # 3 of 2021, the PSU year-old Roman Requeña of underway, but thus far the police have On Sunday, the PSU released an said that the Government has not Mahogany Heights village. not identified a motive for the shooting official statement, informing its revisited its decision to proceed with When the police arrived at the or a suspect. Requeña is not known to general membership of the current the salary cuts and is now considering scene, they found Requeña’s lifeless the police and had not made any reports state of the Budget consultations and invoking Section 106(3) of the Belize body with apparent gunshot injuries. of harassment or any threats to his life. on their way forward. They presented Constitution, which empowers the He was taken to the Karl Heusner Investigators are scanning the area a table outlining the action plan for government to put in place any fixed Memorial Hospital, where he was to determine if there are any this week. salaries and privileges after pronounced dead on arrival. surveillance systems that may Their plan includes the blocking of consultation. The Police Department’s Senior have recorded footage that could the highways and municipalities on “Furthermore, following our notice Superintendent Hilberto Romero told help them identify a suspect. Monday (today’s date), as was done to the Minister of Labour of the at the Haulover Bridge in Belize City. existence of a trade dispute between Public officers and the general public the Government and the Union, the will be participants in this event. Minister of Labour has responded Truck fatally hits man near On Tuesday, April 20, protest advising that he does not intend to walks are scheduled countrywide, refer the trade dispute to the Tribunal PSU members will march in their as contemplated under section 11 of Placencia junction yellow shirts and with placards and the Settlement of Disputes in signs. On April 21, many public Essential Services Act, Cap. 298, by Dayne Guy Arevalo, who told the police that he officers will again not be reporting since the legal framework for such was heading westward on the to work, as the union has planned referral and the final resolution of the Placencia Road, Stann Creek Placencia road, when Pop ran across financial stress and medical check- disputes thereunder, in so far as they District, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 the street and was struck by his truck. up day. apply to public officers, are On Friday, April 16, around 5:30 According to police reports, In Belmopan, the union has inconsistent with section 106(3) of p.m., Placencia police went to a site Arevalo was attempting to overtake scheduled a rotating budget debate the Constitution,” the PSU release near the Placencia junction, where a bus when Pop ran across the road demonstration. During the scheduled stated. they saw the lifeless body of Jose and was hit by Arevalo’s vehicle. two-day budget debate, members of They added that they are Pop, who had sustained severe head Arevalo was later detained, and the various union branches will come demanding that the Government of and body injuries. According to urine/blood samples were taken from Belize implement good governance reports, Pop was hit by a truck while him so that police can determine the results from the police legislation in accordance with the he was running across the road. whether he was under the influence investigation, which will determine UNCAC, as well as other At the scene of the accident was a of alcohol at the time of the incident. whether charges will be brought transparency and accountability gray pickup truck driven by Gerardo He has since been released, pending against him. legislation. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 5

Mandate for “good governance”

This is an unprecedented time in the young life of our Belizean is almost frightening. nation, which faces an economic crisis of gargantuan From the perspective of the man in the street, the union proportions, and there is no easy way out. If the current stand- member, the Belizean voter facing rising costs of fuel and off between the Joint Unions and the PUP government led by basic items on the supermarket shelves, the analogy that best Prime Minister Johnny Briceño doesn’t come to a resolution suits our collective consciousness, is that “every day carry before too long, things could get worse than they need to, bucket to the well, one day the bottom will drop out.” And the much worse. bottom has certainly fallen out of the Belizean economy. As In his budget speech on Friday, April 9, the first of his new P.M. Briceño plainly declared, “We bruk.” Government is only administration, P.M. Briceño did not tell the unions and the able to pay its huge salary bill by borrowing a million dollars a Belizean people much that they didn’t already know about day, a situation that cannot continue. the state of our economy. He just spelled out more of the gory But the bottom may have fallen out of more than the Belizean details. Former P.M. Dean Barrow of the UDP had painted the economy, and the quicker the new PUP government grasps sad picture long before the November 11, 2020 general this reality, the better the chances that this all may end better elections, publicly lamenting the crisis and the financial rather than even worse for Belize. The bottom has fallen out challenges to be faced by his successor. of the bucket of faith that Union members have had in elected But where the nation stands today in regards to ongoing governments to act decisively and conscientiously on the issue negotiations between the Joint Unions and the Briceño that has bothered them most each time they have given such government’s negotiating team, has a lot to do with where we a massive mandate – CORRUPTION! Their unceasing cry and were on the night of February 7, 2008. On that night, following clamor has been for “GOOD GOVERNANCE.” months of union agitation, demonstrations and civil It will never be the same again. The perception of a “massive disturbances against perceived corrupt government dealings mandate” from the Belizean people in the general and then with the nation’s finances and assets – DFC, Social Security, municipal elections, is not real. As has happened in a number UHS, BTL, etc. etc. — newly elected UDP Prime Minister Dean of times past, when Belizeans en masse have gone to the Barrow made a public pledge that the scourge of corruption polls with such vengeance, it has been all about voting “OUT” would be dealt with decisively by his new government. a party from government, rather than voting “IN” the new party. Belizeans are an intelligent people, but we tend to be Union members, many of whom undoubtedly voted “blue” forgiving; so, as a former PUP leader had famously observed, in order to remove the blatantly corrupt “red,” are not in die- political scandals and bad actions tend to vanish from the hard love with any political party. consciousness of Belizean P.M. Briceño’s team has made some meaningful voters, “like wahn lee breeze.” concessions in the negotiations with the unions, but they There are many sayings that are not “there” yet. He still has a mandate, and a five-year apply to our present term if he can keep the lid on this boiling cauldron of predicament — notably, “once frustration and sense of betrayal among union members. bitten, twice shy,” and “fool Expressing his own frustration about the intransigent Amandala(estb. 1969) me once, shame on you; fool unions in a media interview following his budget speech, Business and editorial offices: me twice, shame on me.” Briceño remarked that even if his ministers were to take a 3304 Partridge Street, Belize In terms of heartbreak and 100% salary cut, the unions would still be refusing to accept City, Belize, Central America disappointment, Belizean the 10% cut his advisers had recommended as necessary. is printed twice weekly by the voters have been burned more Maybe he is onto something. Amandala Press. than twice over the years, by The unions are presently in a position where, with their Telephones: 501-280-4703/ both major parties. Our employer proposing a salary cut, they have a legal right to 501-202-4477 Constitution allows for a three- enter into an industrial dispute stance. They have repeatedly quarters majority in the House been at the forefront of initiatives that have resulted in Publisher: of Representatives, which landslide governments, with promises to root out corruption; Editor-in-chief: Marco Lopez should represent an and they have been repeatedly disappointed. With the nation Business Manager: Jacinta Hyde overwhelming mandate of and government’s finances at its most vulnerable, they may support from the electorate, see this as the best opportunity to “force” the hand of Make-up & Design to be is enough to actually government to finally take meaningful action against Artist: Andrea Dennison change the very Constitution corruption and towards good governance. Executive Secretary: Odessa itself, upon which our system On the matter of inviting in the UNCAC, both UDP and PUP Robinson Smith of government is based, and governments have sneered at the idea as somehow impinging Compositor: Tyra Welch on a number of occasions, on our sovereignty. But the UNCAC agents would only be Lithography: Clive Smith Belizean voters have given just involved in investigation and prosecution along with our own such a mandate to a new party police officers. Why do both UDP and PUP governments seem Printers: Kent Brooks in government. Still, the so scared of the UNCAC? Is it because their disgraced heroes, poverty rate has ballooned, the PUP’s and the UDP’s Gapi Vega, are still Please email Correspondence: the crime rate soars, our big-time players behind the scenes in their respective parties? [email protected] national assets keep falling We pray for progress in the continuing negotiations, because into foreign hands, and the nobody wants to see our already dire economic situation get Advertisements to: debt burden keeps getting worse with strikes and demonstrations, and even more strict [email protected] bigger and bigger, while police enforcement of state of emergency regulations. accusations of corruption, “Good governance” is a just cause for the unions to fight Mailing Address: from one party to the other, for in the name of Belize, and with an offer from P.M. Briceño Amandala Press remain the order of the day. to promptly implement UNCAC, they might be moved to 3304 Partridge Street All it has boiled down to, is a willingly accept the bitter medicine of the salary cuts and c/o P.O. Box 15, few “rotten rich” individuals wage freeze. Without the offer from the P.M., the blame for Belize City, Belize who entered politics with the repercussions of industrial action by the unions could modest means, and a nation land squarely at the feet of the PUP government. Amandala’s website: carrying a burden of debt that Let us pray, Belizeans, that our leaders do the right thing. amandala.com.bz Page 6 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Embassy of Mexico hosts UN sets aside $1 million for drawing contest St. Vincent victims

by Dayne Guy Caribbean and Latin America, Mexico, Africa and the Middle St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Fri. East, Asia and Oceana, and Apr. 16, 2021 Europe regions — a total of The displacement of thousands 72 drawings. from their homes as a result of La A total of 28 drawings will Soufriere eruptions has caused a be selected for honorary humanitarian crisis across St. Vincent mention by the Facebook and the Eastern Caribbean. Over community. Persons can submit 20,000 people have been evacuated, their votes through IME’s while over 4,000 had been relocated Facebook page (IMEsremx) to government shelters. From the from the 13th to the 17th of onset of the volcanic eruptions, many September 2021. countries have come to St. Vincent’s The panel of judges will aid. Most recently, the United disqualify all applicants who Nations’ Central Emergency fail to adhere to the theme or Response Fund (CERF) has pledged present artworks that are not to commit $1 million dollars to their own, and it will take into support those who are most neighboring countries or in the homes consideration the following vulnerable and affected by the of family members and friends. The categories: 6 to 8-year-olds, 9 volcanic eruptions. funding from the UN’s CERF will to 11-year-olds and 12 to 14- The UN’s resident coordinator for render assistance to these people who by Dayne Guy year-olds. Successful applicants will the Eastern Caribbean, Didier have been negatively affected by La receive a certificate of recognition, and Trebucq, had called for funding some Soufriere. This fund will be BELMOPAN, Wed. Apr. 14, 2021 their submission will be featured in the time ago following the series of separated into two components. The Embassy of Mexico in Belize 2022 IME calendar. explosions that first started on Friday, The first component will allow for invites young and aspiring artists to Artists are encouraged to sign and April 9, 2021. Noting that the the provision of immediate cash or a participate in its drawing contest, write the date on their drawings. eruptions can become a crisis that voucher assistance. This aid will themed “Este es mi Mexico: the Additionally, interested applicants must would last for over six months, the allow access to food and necessities Independence of Mexico”. This theme fill in the registration form and paste it UN’s CERF had approved the $1 to vulnerable persons who may not commemorates the revolt against the on the back of their drawing. All million allocation of funds that will have access to a sustainable source Spanish colonial government that was drawings should be completed on A3 provide personal protective of food. The World Food Programme instigated by Father Miguel Hidalgo, size paper board or cardboard. Within equipment, water and basic will lead this component of with Commanders Agustín de Iturbide their submission, applicants must write necessities to the food-insecure and assistance and will complement St. and Vicente Guerrero leading the battle their name along with a brief most vulnerable. He says, “We are Vincent’s government’s ongoing with advanced guerilla warfare tactics. description of their drawing. dealing with a crisis within the efforts to boost resiliency. This event ultimately led to the Due to the unprecedented impact of COVID crisis. This is one that will The second component addresses independence of Mexico. the coronavirus, the Embassy of certainly last more than six months water supply and hygiene (WASH), The judges of the contest will include Mexico in Belize advises prospective in Saint Vincent and other affected as well as health support. Water a representative from Mexico’s applicants to submit applications islands, and we are committed to services have shut down across the Ministry of Culture, the contest’s through email in one of the accepted providing urgent relief to those that region, limiting the resources “Madrino” or “Padrino”, a sixth-grade image formats (JPEG or PNG). are most in need, including evacuees. available to those in the community. child of an employee at the Ministry of Submissions can be made to the address That is why I call on the international As a result, extra emphasis will be Foreign Affairs at Mexico and a culturalesembbee@sre. gob.mx and/ or community to extend support,” placed on the testing and treatment representative from the Institute for to comunidadesbee@ sre.gob.mx These 4,000 displaced persons of water supply and storage systems, Mexicans Abroad. They will be tasked before the deadline on Sunday, August have been dispersed across 87 and cleaning/sanitation services will with selecting 12 winning drawings 15, 2021. Applicants may still make shelters, some of which lack basic also be extended. This component each from the Eastern America, submissions at the nearest Consulate, necessities such as drinking water. will be spearheaded by UNICEF with Western America and Canada, Embassy or Delegation. Others have found an asylum in assistance from PAHO.

Mayan Heights Village Resort is looking for a great personality to guide the resort and its spectacular Restaurant overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Over one thousand acres of farm and forests surround this uniquely located resort in the Stann Creek area. Responsibilities include the daily management and operation of its newly built restaurant, the care and guidance of the restaurant AMANDALA customers and cabin guests. The responsibility includes the hiring and managing of all employees. This position will be solely Belizean responsible to the owners and the Farm Operation Manager for to the bone the smooth operation of all aspects of the food supply and dining experiences. Requirements include ten year of experience in the #3304 Partridge Street, hospitality industry and a proven track record. This position will be Belize City. available two month from now. Salary DOE Telephones: 501-280-4703/ 202-4477 Please send your resume to Florencio Esquivel [email protected] Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 7 Dominica takes the longevity prize

by Colin Hyde The World Atlas says the UN gifted to us to chase drugs, to ferry Dominica’s Centenarian Women”, estimates that there are 316,600 his team about. recognized Ma Pampo Israel, then the It wasn’t always so, but Jamaicans centenarians in the world right now, Okay, now we land in Dominica, oldest person on the planet. The can now kick our behinds in football, and the projection is that 1/3 of all the land where, incredibly, there organizers said that at 126 she was and so can Haiti, and Cuba, and babies born in the UK in 2013 will were FOUR centenarians living on “still going strong”. Ma Pampo died Trinidad and Tobago. Yap, we were, live to that ripe young age. The Japan ONE STREET. Wow! in 2003 at age 128. In 2001 prior to 1970, worthy rivals in Times said 90% of the centenarians American doctor, Steven Masley worldwide life expectancy for football with the best in the in Japan are women. MD, in his story, “Which Country has women was 64 to 67 and for men it Caribbean, and of course we were One source has linked the vitamins the Highest Percentage of People was 61 (they are running us ragged, totally dominant in softball, almost E and A with long life, and I once Over 100 years of Age?”, says that’s what the evidence says, everywhere in the world, except for read about a village in Russia where Dominica is doing the best in the clearly), and in 2001 Dominica life the USA. they are very big on onions. I guess longevity race, with 27 in a expectancy for women was 78 to 81, In the longevity race, thanks to a every other day it must be escabaych population of only 72,000 people. and for men 75. lot of good doctors who came here or fish tea on their table. “This is nearly four people per Lest anyone thinks I have a from Europe, a lot of local knowledge It’s a good bet that increased 10,000, which is 50 percent higher candidacy for centenarian status, the about herbs, and of course the fact longevity will force capitalist than Japan, 65 percent higher than in answer to that is nyet, not a chance. that our ancestors had to work very economies to go left, but for now it the United States, and three times as To make a hundred you have to have hard, physically, our performance is a great boon for corporations. many as in Great Britain”, Masley been lucky to escape serious injuries, hasn’t been too poor. The World Bank Longevity is huge business, and says, and yes, four of them were you have to have a temperament that says in 1960 world life expectancy countries see big profit in laying living on one street! leaves everything to God, you have was 52.58 years, and in Belize it was claim to the food from their region Naturally, Masley, a doctor, to exercise consistently, and you can’t 59.98, in Mexico, 57.07, in as the source of youth. You know investigated why the Dominicans live love drinking. I don’t qualify. Guatemala, 46.7, in Jamaica, 64.77, business is everything, peepl haffu so long, and he suggests their pristine If you have ambition, I think one in , 64.47, and in the US eat, and in that line we have been environment is a major plus. He also of the big outward markers in the (Statista) 69.66 years. bombarded about the wonders of says that they have a healthy diet of longevity series is belly fat. Looking In the year 2000 we saw a major olive oil, what it does for the Italians homegrown natural foods, the at the ancianos in my family, my increase in lifespan, especially in and other Mediterranean people, and freshest water, and they love herbal paternal grampa, who made 97, died those countries that were near the the horrors of our coconut oil. teas; they are physically active, walk with no belly fat; my uncle, Roy bottom. World Bank stats show that Dr. Bulwer told us that dehn mi di a lot; they have strong community Belisle, died at 102 without belly fat; in 2000 average life expectancy in lai against kuknat, and when the spirit, self-sufficient communities; my dad, who’s 97, didn’t have belly the world had increased by 15 years, matter went to court the truth of the and they have strong faith in God. fat until he was well into his 70s, and from 52.58 in 1960 to 67.55. In oil wars came out, and bah, they In 2001, organizers of a ceremony my aunt, Grace Grant, she’s 95 and Belize, life expectancy increased to wanted to push sales of olive oil, and under the banner, “A Tribute to she still doesn’t have belly fat. 68.85, in Mexico life expectancy in also corner dwindling world 2000 was 74.34, in Guatemala 67.85, supplies of coconut oil for their in Jamaica 74.14, in Barbados 77.16, biscuit companies. and in the US (Statista) 76.47 years. I think I have to go and check on Coming up to 2018, the World Bank our German friends right now, says in that year world life because a huge story about is that expectancy was 72.56 years, in wine from grapes grown in the Belize it was 74.5 years, in Mexico Mediterranean is the best alcoholic 74.99, in Guatemala 74, in Jamaica beverage, that it is dual purpose, 74.37, in Barbados 79.08, and in the serves both mind and physical health. US (Statista), life expectancy was There, thank you Google, I found that 78.54 years. life expectancy in Germany in 2020 According to The Borgen Project, is 81.41 years, so we can drink all for the year 2018 the CIA ranked the Belikin and Pirate we want, if Belize’s life expectancy 122nd we’ve got the money. globally, with females averaging 76.3 Ah, now we point our bow to years and males 73.1. mountain country in the middle of the Well, I think most of us believe that Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic the Japanese, with their even keel and Ocean, to the awesome island of all their discipline and wealth, are at Dominica, but whoa, hold on a the top of the world in longevity, and minute there in our discussion of their no surprise, Katharina Buchholz, in the incredible longevity to allow me to story “Centenarians, Where 100 is the tell you why their leader, Roosevelt New 80”, says a PEW estimate says Skerrit, is our John Saldivar’s big there’ll be 3.7 million centenarians by hero. My bet is that if you go into 2050, and Japan, which at this time John’s house the big picture on the has 79,000 oldsters in the 100 club, wall will be Skerrit, not Dean second only to the US and their 97,000, Barrow. will lead the way. Hmm, Mr. Skerrit was on the hot Buchholz said the oldest woman seat for being too cozy with a Chinese today is Japanese, 117-year-old Kane billionaire. One Wikipedia page says Tanaka, and the oldest man is from the rich man from China reportedly Spain, soon to be 112-years-old, told his friends that he was behind Saturnino de la Fuente. Dominica dumping our friends from Her report says 0.03% of the Taiwan, and their picking up Bill population in France, Spain and Italy Lindo’s friends, the Real Deal Big are centenarians, and Uruguay, Hong Red Machine China. Ah, and the Al Kong and Puerto Rico are up there, Jazeera (I saw the tapes) said there with centenarians in those countries was an investigation into Skerrit between 0.06 and 0.045 percent of about diplomatic passports and their populations. Buchholz’s report, ambassadorships. But all that pales published by Statista, only looks at when compared to the exploits of our the longevity rates in the more local hero, who, among other populated countries. suspected crimes, once used a boat Page 8 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021

Mandato de “buena gobernanza”

Este es un momento sin precedentes en la vida joven de esta realidad, mayores serán las posibilidades de que todo nuestra nación beliceña, que enfrenta una crisis económica esto termine mejor en lugar de peor para Belize. Se ha caído de proporciones gigantescas, y no hay una salida fácil. Si el el fondo del balde de fe que los miembros de los sindicatos enfrentamiento actual entre los Sindicatos Conjuntos y el han tenido en los gobiernos electos para actuar con decisión gobierno del PUP liderado por el primer ministro Johnny y conciencia sobre el tema que más les ha molestado cada Briceño no se resuelve antes de que pase mucho tiempo, las vez que han dado un mandato tan masivo: ¡LA CORRUPCIÓN! cosas podrían empeorar más de lo necesario, mucho peor. Su incesante grito y clamor ha sido por “BUEN GOBIERNO”. En su discurso sobre el presupuesto el viernes 9 de abril, el Nunca volverá a ser lo mismo. La percepción de un “mandato primero de su nueva administración, el P.M. Briceño no les masivo” del pueblo beliceño en las elecciones generales y dijo mucho más a los sindicatos y al pueblo beliceño de lo luego municipales, no es real. Como ha sucedido en varias que ellos no sabían ya sobre el estado de nuestra economía. ocasiones pasadas, cuando los beliceños en masa han ido a Simplemente explicó más detalles explícitos. El ex P.M. Dean las urnas con tanta venganza, se ha tratado de votar “FUERA” Barrow del UDP había pintado el triste panorama mucho antes a un partido del gobierno, en lugar de votar “DENTRO” al de las elecciones generales del 11 de noviembre de 2020, nuevo partido. lamentando públicamente la crisis y los desafíos financieros Los miembros de los sindicatos, muchos de los cuales sin que enfrentaría su sucesor. duda votaron “azul” para sacar fuera al “rojo” Pero la situación actual de la nación en lo que respecta a las descaradamente corrupto, no están enamorados de ningún negociaciones en curso entre los Sindicatos Conjuntos y el partido político. equipo negociador del gobierno de Briceño, tiene mucho que El equipo de PM Briceño ha hecho algunas concesiones ver con dónde estábamos la noche del 7 de febrero de 2008. significativas en las negociaciones con los sindicatos, pero Esa noche, luego de meses de agitación sindical, todavía no han llegado donde deben. Todavía tiene un manifestaciones y disturbios civiles contra tratos mandato y un período de cinco años si puede mantener a gubernamentales que se percibían como corruptos con las raya este caldero hirviente de frustración y sentido de traición finanzas y los activos de la nación (DFC, Seguridad Social, entre los miembros de los sindicatos. UHS, BTL, etc., etc.), el recién elegido Primer Ministro del Al expresar su propia frustración por los sindicatos UDP, Dean Barrow, hizo una promesa pública de que el flagelo intransigentes en una entrevista con los medios después de de la corrupción se abordaría de manera decisiva por su nuevo su discurso sobre el presupuesto, Briceño comentó que gobierno. incluso si sus ministros aceptaran un recorte salarial del Los beliceños son un pueblo inteligente, pero tendemos a 100%, los sindicatos seguirían negándose a aceptar el recorte perdonar; así que, como observó un exlíder del PUP, los del 10% que sus asesores habían recomendado como escándalos políticos y las malas acciones tienden a necesario. Quizás haya encontrado una pista. desaparecer de la conciencia de los votantes beliceños, Los sindicatos se encuentran actualmente en una posición “como una pequeña brisa”. en la que, con su empleador proponiendo un recorte salarial, Hay muchos dichos que se aplican a nuestra situación actual, tienen el derecho legal de entrar en una posición de conflicto en particular, “una vez mordido, dos veces tímido” y “si me laboral. En repetidas ocasiones han estado a la vanguardia engañas una vez, la culpa es tuya; Si me engañas dos veces, de iniciativas que han resultado en gobiernos con victorias la culpa es mía.” aplastantes, con promesas de erradicar la corrupción; y han En términos de desamor y decepción, los votantes beliceños sido decepcionados repetidamente. Con las finanzas de la han sido heridos más de dos veces a lo largo de los años, por nación y el gobierno en su punto más vulnerable, es posible los dos partidos principales. Nuestra Constitución permite que vean esta como la mejor oportunidad para “forzar” la una mayoría de tres cuartos en la Cámara de Representantes, mano del gobierno a tomar finalmente medidas significativas lo que debería representar un mandato abrumador de apoyo contra la corrupción y hacia el buen gobierno. del electorado, que es suficiente para cambiar la Constitución En cuanto a invitar adentro a la CNUCC, tanto los gobiernos misma, en la que se basa nuestro sistema de gobierno, y en del UDP como del PUP se han burlado de la idea como de una serie de ocasiones, los votantes beliceños han dado tal alguna manera afectando nuestra soberanía. Pero los agentes mandato a un nuevo partido en el gobierno. Aún así, la tasa de la CNUCC solo estarían involucrados en la investigación y de pobreza se ha disparado, la tasa de criminalidad se dispara, el enjuiciamiento junto con nuestros propios oficiales de nuestros activos nacionales siguen cayendo en manos policía. ¿Por qué los gobiernos UDP y PUP parecen tan extranjeras y la carga de la deuda sigue aumentando cada asustados de la CNUCC? ¿Es porque sus héroes caídos en vez más, mientras que las acusaciones de corrupción, de un desgracia, Ralph Fonseca del PUP y Gapi Vega del UDP, partido a otro, siguen estando a la orden del día. Todo se ha todavía son grandes jugadores detrás de la escena en sus reducido a unos pocos individuos “forrados en plata” que respectivos partidos? ingresaron a la política con medios modestos, y una nación Oramos por el progreso de las negociaciones en curso, porque que lleva una carga de deuda que es casi aterradora. nadie quiere que nuestra ya desesperada situación económica Desde la perspectiva del hombre promedio, el sindicalista, el empeore con huelgas y manifestaciones, y una aplicación votante beliceño que enfrenta costos crecientes de policial aún más estricta de las regulaciones del estado de combustible y artículos básicos en los estantes de los emergencia. supermercados, la analogía que mejor se adapta a nuestra La “buena gobernanza” es una causa justa por la que los conciencia colectiva es que “todos los días llevamos un balde sindicatos deben luchar en nombre de Belize, y con una al pozo, un día se le caerá el fondo”. Y ciertamente el fondo oferta del P.M. Briceño para implementar prontamente la se le ha caído a la economía de Belize. Como P.M. Briceño CNUCC, podrían ser movidos a aceptar voluntariamente la declaró claramente: “Estamos en bancarrota”. El gobierno amarga medicina de los recortes salariales y la congelación solo puede pagar su enorme factura salarial pidiendo prestado salarial. Sin la oferta del P.M., la culpa de las repercusiones un millón de dólares al día, una situación que no puede de huelgas por parte de los sindicatos podría recaer continuar. directamente en los pies del gobierno del PUP. Pero el fondo puede haber caído de más que la economía de Oremos, beliceños, para que nuestros líderes hagan lo Belize, y cuanto más rápido el nuevo gobierno PUP capte correcto. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 9

There is a growing tension in The PUP’s blowout of the incumbent are angry at the new government for “The inherent illogicality of Jewel which features the recently United Democratic Party (UDP) moving to cut their salaries, and the having two versions of one’s history elected People’s United Party (PUP) government in the 1998 general unions are basically pointing fingers in Belize is a problem still unresolved. government facing off with the workers’ election. But, the reason it was a at the big money people behind the If Colonial governors (however well unions of Belize because government blowout was because the masses of politicians and asking serious intentioned), exploiting merchants finances are in a desperate state. the Belizean people, who I think we questions. Belize appears to be in and Creole aristocrats are still the There is a historical irony here in may describe as working class, had crisis. Belizean heroes, then the exploited that when the PUP first won national become hostile to Dr. Manuel In the second part of this column, I class and its spokesmen - Fred elections in colonial Esquivel’s UDP administration. want to throw out a few quotations Gahne, Samuel Haynes, Tony in 1954 and 1957, it was as the PUP/ If we say that the PUP first “bought” from a paper by the late Peter Soberanis and Luke Kemp - must still GWU (General Workers Union). a general election in 1998, when was Ashdown entitled THE PROBLEM be the villains of the piece. These The PUP busted free of the GWU it that the UDP first “bought” a general OF CREOLE HISTORIOGRAPHY. A gentlemen will not all fit in the same in time for the 1961 general election, election? I don’t think we can say British historian who appears to have bed. Such is the problem of Creole the first under a new Ministerial 2008, because there was massive been a left wing ideologue, Ashdown historiography and the sooner it is constitution, but it is generally felt that anger directed at the incumbent PUP is an academic I wish were still alive, resolved the sooner can Belizean the support of the unions was critical from the union base. and I wish I had met him, even though students of the future come to grips in the surprise 1979 general election Perhaps we can say that the UDP he criticizes my 1969 KNOCKING with a coherent vision of the reality victory of the PUP, the election which “bought” the 2015 general election OUR OWN TING as “unconvincing.” of their past.” (pg. 147) essentially catapulted Belize to with PetroCaribe money. But, we The quotations are from the pages political independence in 1981. cannot speak definitively. All we know of the Second Edition of READINGS “ ... since 1954 the power structure It is difficult to pinpoint when today, in April of 2021, is that you IN BELIZEAN HISTORY, published has changed and so have ruling elections here began to be decided by cannot win a general election any more in 1987 by St. John’s College’s attitudes. Part of that change in campaign financiers, or the oligarchy. without big money. This was not the BELIZEAN STUDIES, and edited by attitude should have been the At a certain point the two major case, I suggest, in the 1950s, the 1960s, Lita Hunter Krohn. replacement of colonial ‘heroes’ political parties became beholden to the 1970s, or perhaps even the 1980s. (Cran, Slack, Matthews and assorted big money, which they used to The masses of the Belizean people Following are three quotations from merchants) with Belizean working- campaign and seduce the majority of supported the PUP in the November Ashdown’s paper, with the page class ones. This is necessary, for the the voters. Or, so it seems. 2020 general election and in the numbers coming from the precursors of Price, Pollard, I would say that campaign national municipal elections in March aforementioned READINGS IN financiers were very influential in the of 2021. But now the workers’ unions BELIZEAN HISTORY. Please turn to„Page 12 Page 10 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021

number to play - 79 is out over 1 year but there are only 5 teams that registered 11 months 3 weeks 2 days now, 85 is already, the 2 other teams have a still out for a long time now, 85 is out financial problem, the Placencia for over 1 year 5 months 2 weeks now, Assassins and the BDF. The season “Press” Predictions: 19-59-08 47 and 70 also out over 1 year and more. should get started by the end of May. Boledo stats thru 20th to 27 April There are 2 series left to play on a The 5 teams that registered already are 2021 Sunday. The forties and the sixties defending champions Verdes FC, In boledo news, teens finally played series, ending 6 has played some 16 Wagiya FC, The Belmopan Bandits, San after 2 months and 3 days. These are times already, the thirties and the Pedro Pirates and the Altitude of by Gilroy “Press” Cadogan my lucky numbers for this week: 19- eighties series are still the hottest Mango Creek. Verdes FC still has the 71-08-59-68-17. These are my lucky series. Remember to read your Psalms: best team under Manager Mr. Lorin PICK-3 numbers: 802-580-469-191- 72-91-63; next week more stats. Frazer. Enuff respect to the PHB won player of the week 2 straight times, 171-392. These are my lucky jackpot president Mr. Ian Haylock, the FFB he and the L A Clippers have Rajon numbers: 6945-7828-5607. Get ready president Mr. Sergio Chuc, Mr. Cruz Rondo, “Mr. Playoff” is his nickname. Belize, some dinero will be coming our Gamez the vice president; the fans are Any team can beat each other on a given way. 59 refuses to play since 29th of waiting desperately. Right now some night; next week more stats. May 2019, that’s over 1 year 10 months talking that an Orange Walk based team 2 weeks and 5 days now, 17 is still out There are only 5 teams right now wants a spot sponsor by the Pirate Beer for over 1 year 4 months and 2 weeks Local Football Update and Company, next week more stats. now, 27 is also for over 1 year and 1 Predictions month now, 68 is still out for over 1 In local football news, the FFB and year and 6 months, 79 is the hardest The PHB are planning a new season, Real Madrid will win the Champions League International Football Results In international football action, in the LeBron James will be back in 2 quarterfinals, 4 games results, Real PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTY weeks’ time Madrid and Liverpool drew nil-nil, but NBA Results and Predictions Madrid advanced because they won the BY ORDER of the Chargees, Messrs. Alpha GammaFinancial Services In NBA action, the Los Angeles first leg 3 to 1. Then PSG lost to the Lakers beat the Utah Jazz by some defending champions Bayern Munich Limited,Licensed Auctioneer, Fernando Molina, will sell the following twelve points, 127 to 115. The new 1-0, but PSG will advance on properties, being the freehold property of Palmetto Holdings aggregates 3 to 3. They won the first Ltd.,TOGETHER with all buildings and erections thereon in one lot by leg 3 goals to 2, Kylian M’Bappe had way of public auction on site on Friday, the 7thof May, 2021 at 11:00 2 goals in the game. Then Manchester a.m.: City shocked Borussia Dortmund 2 to 1; Chelsea beat Porto to advance to the REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL semifinals. Real Madrid with Zinedine Placencia North 36 662 (1.91 Acres), Zidane will beat Chelsea 3-0, Kareem 663 (1.60 Acres), Benzema will score 2 goals, then PSG 664 (1.29 Acres), will beat Manchester City and Pep 665 (1.14 Acres), Guardiola 678 (0.99 Acre), 2-nil, 679 (0.98 Acre) acquisition of Andre Drummond Neymar Jr. playing the center position makes the and Kylian Lakers a real contender to repeat as M’Bappe champions. LeBron James will be back will score in 2 weeks’ time, the team will be back the goals. In healthy for the playoff run. Jamaal the La Liga, Murray is out for the Denver Nuggets Atletico for the entire season. Steph Curry Madrid scored 53 points and his team will be with 67 in the play in playoffs. The Philadelphia points leads 76ers are in the top 3 best teams, the by just one Brooklyn Nets lost LaMarcus Aldridge point over with stones in his system. He had to Real Madrid’s 66 points and by just 2 retire, they still have now 4 All Star points over FC Barcelona with 65 players, the Milwaukee Bucks and points. Lionel Messi still leads with Giannis Antetokoumpo will be very 23 goals, Benzema have 20 goals; next dangerous in the playoffs, Paul George week more stats.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The U.S. Embassy Belmopan is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the following position:

Position Name: Chauffeur(General Services Office)

Vacancy number: Belmopan-2021-03

Closing date: April 20, 2021

Interested applicants must submit their application via the Electronic Recruitment Application (ERA) system, a web-based system. To view and apply for this TERMS: STRICTLY CASH vacancy, visit the ERA site at: https://erajobs.state.gov/dos-era/blz/ For further particulars on the properties, please contact: vacancysearch/searchVacancies.hms Email: [email protected] Please visit the Embassy’s website for instructions on how to apply via the Tel: 610-0919 ERA system:https://bz.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/ Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 11 The Same Folks That Put You Where You Are Today...

what? Oh, hey there, esteemed with us with a view to make our lives administration would put a “whap” readers, sincere apologies, was busy better. The least we can ask for is to on them! Yes, yes, we know the state humming that old tune from Mel & be respected and engaged in a spirit of the economy, but you knew fully Tim. So where were we? Oh yes, of goodwill and camaraderie. Never well too! So now we are just here right there! I am appalled at the would one believe that we would be sitting like idle ducks in waiting; carrying on of this new government talked down to, scolded and in some pawns in a chess game, wondering which somehow seems to have instances belittled, with little respect what the next move will be. forgotten so early on in their tenure for our wishes and our core values. Anyways, one thing that is in whose hands the great power lies: Furthermore, one of the primary absolutely true is that time is longa en el manos de la gente: in the hands reasons why this new government than rope, and the people have their of the people. was given such a massive mandate eyes peeled wide open. So, in the After two successive resounding is because the people felt that the words of the old song from Mel & mandates from the people of Belize, previous administration was no Tim, this new government better take “People don’t stop to think about this new government seems to be longer serving their best interests. heed before these apt lyrics catch up How they got where they are “high” on power. It appears their Now, to be early on in your “good with them. Don’t play with the people, They’re too busy living the good haughtiness has caused them to forget governance” term and not quite missa big man, and don’t take the will life the power of the people who walking the proverbial straight and of the people lightly, sah; because Playing the low-level movie star essentially placed them there. This narrow is no less than a slap of the sooner or later you may very well They ain’t got time to understand government was elected on a good wrist to the very good people who find out that sometimes da nuh di fall They’re too busy seeking glory governance mandate, and there have put you there. I find it menacing how kill people, yuh nuh? Da di sudden When a poor man needs a been quite a few “fast ones” that they such great weight is being put on a drap! So be very careful and guided helping hand have pulled that have certainly raised selected group to shoulder the ails of before you are forced to realize that... They call it a hard luck story some eyebrows and sparked the economy and then there is the “... The same folks You might be rich and wealthy concerns among the people. There audacity to paint a disdainful picture That put you where you are today And got some money to burn have been quite a few blunders, done of them. Tomorrow they just might take Just remember it’s those little in a most insolent manner, that have This government ought not to forget it away wheels provoked the populace. the humility they had when they The same folks That make the big wheels turn” We as a people did not elect sought out this office. Furthermore, That put you where you are today leaders to trample on the masses of now that the people entrusted them Tomorrow they just might take Oooh, Oooh, Yeah... “... just the people and dictate to us. We to lead, the people expect that they it away...” remember it’s those little wheels that elected our leaders to have will lead with that same humility and make the big wheels turn...” Wait, meaningful and respectful discourse fervor and valor that they approached Keep your eyes open. them with. Little did the masses realize that just after a mere few Unchained Reflections Of A Cuba’s Raul Castro resigns months into office, that this new Liberal Pragmatist.

will assume the position. His successor will be voted in at the end of the four-day congress event. Castro’s successor will have no easy task. Cuba currently faces the worst economic crisis since the passing of Fidel, and despite the improvement of the country’s relations with the US since his brother’s passing, its standing has slumped following sanctions the US’s previous Trump administration had put in place. BUTTONWOOD BAY MEDICAL CENTER Despite his resignation, Castro TERTIARY CARE MEDICAL SERVICES promises to remain a focal part of by Dayne Guy Cuba’s development. In his speech at the congress event, Castro said, “I BBMC Notice of Employment Havana, Cuba, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 believe fervently in the strength and Raul Castro, leader of the Cuban exemplary nature and comprehension Full Time post for the following Medical Specialist: Communist Party, has announced his of my compatriots, and as long as I resignation as party leader at Cuba’s live I will be ready with my foot in latest Congress sitting on Friday. Raul the stirrups to defend the fatherland, 1. Registered / Practical Nurse has been the party leader for 15 years the revolution and socialism.” 2. Midwife and served as acting president of Cuba and Belize have had a long- Cuba from 2006 up to 2018 — a standing diplomatic relationship. 3. Radiologist position that he inherited from his Cuba has persistently supported 4. Radiology Technician brother, Fidel Castro, after Fidel fell Belize in sports, by sending skilled sick. coaches that aid in player The Castro name has been development; in education, via Send Curriculum Vitae to: synonymous with Cuba’s national scholarships; and through health, by identity. Castro’s resignation will sending numerous healthcare mark the first time since 1959, that professionals that boost Belize’s Administrator someone other than a Castro will emergency medical response. 379 Buttonwood Bay Blvd govern the country. This ends a Additionally, Cuba has played a historic six-decade rule that has sent major role in Belize’s road to Belize City, Belize C.A. ripples throughout the Caribbean and Independence. Cuba was the first Phone: (501) 223-1901/223-1903 the Americas. Latin American country to openly Fax: (501) 223-3434 Despite Castro not having support Belize’s independence and endorsed a successor, it is widely lobbied for other Latin American believed that the Cuban president and countries to recognize Belize’s Emails: [email protected] Castro’s protege, Miguel Díaz-Canel, sovereignty. Page 12 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Vaccine production slows down

There have been at least 10 different vaccines being circulated across the Americas. So far, only four have been authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO). These are the Pfizer/ BioNTech vaccine, two versions of the AstraZeneca/ Oxford jab and the SKBio/ Serum Institute of India Janssen vaccine. “[These vaccines] are by Dayne Guy already helping to prevent severe disease and deaths in places where they Washington DC, U.S.A., Wed. Apr.14, are in use,” said the PAHO director. 2021 Vaccine surveillance systems have Despite the urgent need for more revealed that a fraction of the vaccines, COVAX vaccine producers individuals with low platelet levels have been facing constraints, which are have experienced blood clotting as a slowing down the production of result of the vaccines, but the Pan vaccines available to the Americas. American Health Organization (PAHO) The Americas have distributed over says that it is imperative nonetheless 247 million COVID-19 vaccines, yet for individuals to be vaccinated countries in the region are still in the because the vaccines play a critical grips of a worsening virus outbreak. role in the battle against COVID. The activities of the Easter Week raised The regulatory agencies are currently the infection rate, and have resulted in reviewing the cases of blood clots and more people being infected in the past vaccine safety. The PAHO Director week than the weekly case averages warns against fearing the vaccines. She throughout last year’s onset of the virus. explained, “In the meantime, it’s Director of the Pan American Health important to continue to administer Organization, Dr. Carissa Etienne, said, AstraZeneca vaccines where they are “It will be a few weeks before supplies available. Almost 200 million people normalize. PAHO is actively working around the world have received to support countries to make the most AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine and of limited doses by considering their the reports of adverse effects are very limited shelf life and the vulnerable rare. These vaccines can save your life populations that should be protected and the lives of your friends and first.” family.” From the Publisher

Continued from Page 9 taxation to supplement the general „ revenue for the implementation of Goldson and Richardson were men public works or social services. They who opposed the Establishment in also to a man defended the archaic its heyday. They never stood a and repressive labour law until chance of success, but they fought coerced into its repeal in 1943. on. It is the duty of the educational Government spending on roads, powers to recognize in death education, public health and housing contributions these early ‘agitators’ remained nominal and static until - Haynes, Lahoodie, Soberanis, natural disaster broke the unofficial Adderley and Kemp - made to the majority in 1932. That majority in nationalist cause, especially as in its lifetime (1892-1932) included their own lifetimes they were almost many men still highly regarded as universally reviled and often City Fathers, some of whose names imprisoned. They did not live to are still preserved in the share the fruits of the changes they nomenclature of city streets as well fought for and the least we can do as granite slabs at Lord’s Ridge. It is is to recognize their contribution in my contention that Benjamin a nationalist history.” (pg. 148) Fairweather, James Cran, S. G. Woods, Carlos Melhado, Rev. Robert “The record shows quite clearly Cleghorn, Sydney Cuthbert, that Belize entered the twentieth Benjamin Stuart, and several others century undeveloped NOT because (including the M.L.C.s of the 1930s the Colonial Office and the Colonial and 40s) should not be seen as the Government were indolent or ‘people’s representatives’ (which they uncaring, but because their plans for claimed they were) championing the development were sabotaged by the cause of the masses against the unofficial members of the Legislative arbitrary rule of Downing Street, but Council. Those gentlemen, because rather viewed as a continuation of of their majority, retained the power the self-seeking elitist oligarchy of the purse and the right to throw which was the political power in out legislation unacceptable to them Belize from its inception as a and, whether expatriate or Creole, settlement until it became a Crown consistently opposed any increase in Colony proper in 1932.” (pg. 151)

Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 13 BMW and freight liner truck Union leaders and collide; 1 dead GoB meet again (From page 1) by Dayne Guy According to police reports, Paz was driving northward when his Hummingbird Highway, Stann Creek vehicle collided with one of the District, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 freight liner trucks, and he was fatally On Friday, April 16, at around injured Borland was detained, and 8:00 p.m., a fatal road traffic police took urine samples from him, accident occurred between Miles 39 but no charges have been levied and 40 on the Hummingbird against him as yet. Guerra was not Highway. Police who went to the detained, and no charges have yet scene of the accident found the been brought against him. lifeless body of 22-year-old Alfaro Although the incident was a head- Paz inside an extensively damaged, on collision, police do not believe black BMW vehicle. that either driver was attempting to Further along the highway, police overtake the other. It is believed that came across two freightliner trucks, either Paz or Borland possibly drifted one of which was driven by Leland toward the center of the road; where Borland and another by Christian their vehicles ultimately collided, Guerra. Both of the trucks had been resulting in the collision. BELIZE CITY, Fri. Apr. 16, 2021 participants from the Central Bank heading south. Police are investigating. On Friday, outside the Central Bank building show that all members of the of Belize, a group of teachers picketed Joint Union Negotiation team were in protest of Government’s salary present, and there were four Nestor Vasquez passes at 89 cuts, while inside the building, on that representatives present at the meeting same day, three Cabinet ministers and from the Government side: Deputy Continued from Page 1 Rodriguez, Vasquez was a member of the a minister of state were meeting with Prime Minister, ; „ Liberal Party which merged with the union leaders in an effort to find some Finance Minister of State, Chris Preliminary reports are indicating that People’s Development Movement common ground. Coye; Minister of Public Service, Vasquez was injured when he fell down (PDM) led by and the The meeting, which started around Henry Charles Usher; and Minister the stairs of his home, and was rushed to National Independence Party (NIP) led 10 o’clock that morning, concluded of Education, . the Belize Medical Associates for by to form the UDP in at about 3:00 in the afternoon. Union Neither the unions nor the treatment, but passed away while at the 1973.,” the UDP release stated. leaders and ministers were then seen Government have made an official facility. His family was reportedly with Vasquez was also instrumental in the leaving through the back door exit of statement to let the public know what him when he died. formation of Belize Telecommunications the Central Bank building, evading was discussed in the meeting, but He was an accountant by profession, Limited, which later became Belize the waiting media. reports are that the unions met with and was also the owner of Vasquez and Telemedia Limited, where he served as Some photos and video footage of their membership shortly after to Company and Tropical Vision Ltd., the chairman of the company’s board of the departure of the meeting’s share with them what was discussed. parent company of Channel 7 — making directors for some years before recently him a pioneer in Belizean television. As resigning from that post. Leader of the mentioned, he was one of the founders of UDP, Hon. Patrick Faber, and the entire the UDP and had been a financial advisor party extend deepest condolences to the Corrigendum to the party since 1984. family of Nestor Vasquez, Sr. “He was one of the founders of the The UDP will fly their flag at half- by Evan X Hyde In 1958, George Price was UDP and a trustee of the party. Along with mast until his burial on Friday, April, charged for sedition by the British former Prime Minister Sir Manuel 23. In the Friday, April 16, 2021 issue colonial authorities here because of Esquivel and other prominent We here at Amandala extend our of this newspaper, in an article on words in a speech he gave at a PUP personalities like , Henry sincerest condolences to the family and page 25, Wellington C. Ramos wrote public meeting. He was acquitted. Young, Harry Lawrence and Paul friends of the late Nestor Vasquez. that: “In 1951 Philip Goldson, Leigh Up until late 1956, when there was Richardson and George Price were a power struggle inside the PUP and placed on trial for sedition due to Price replaced Richardson as PUP their political activities against the Leader, and Mr. Goldson and Mr. Sputnik V Shows 97.6% Efficacy British government. Philip Goldson Richardson left the PUP, THE and Leigh Richardson were BILLBOARD, to repeat, was After Millions of Vaccinations convicted and sent to prison, but considered the newspaper organ of George Price was acquitted.” the PUP. It is not clear how Mr. Moscow. Russia. Mon. Apr 19th 2021— Between Dec. 5, 2020, and March In fact, there were two separate Goldson became the owner of THE teleSUR 31, 2021, the infection rate of persons sedition trials in the 1950s. In 1951, BELIZE BILLBOARD, but when he Its efficacy may be even higher since vaccinated with both doses of Sputnik Goldson and Richardson were left the PUP in 1956 he took THE the research did not take into account V was only 0.027 percent. In contrast, charged with sedition because of an BILLBOARD along with him. the time lapse between the actual the infection rate among the unvaccinated article in THE BELIZE Under Mr. Price, the PUP then infection and the diagnosis of the adult population was 1.1 percent. BILLBOARD, which was considered acquired their own printing press and disease. Gamaleya Center Director Alexander the newspaper organ of the anti- began to publish THE BELIZE The Russian Direct Investment Fund Gintsburg indicated that the actual colonial People’s United Party (PUP) TIMES, which has been the (RDIF) on Monday announced that the efficacy of the vaccine may be even at that time. Mr. Price was not newspaper organ of the PUP from that Sputnik V vaccine has demonstrated higher since the research did not take charged along with them. time, 1956. 97.6 percent efficacy during the into account the time lapse between the vaccination campaign that has already actual infection and the diagnosis of the reached 3.8 million Russians. disease. RDIF Director Kiril Dmitriev RDIF said that the results of this study Wear a mask explained that the vaccine’s efficacy is will be published in a specialized higher than the 91.6 percent initially medical journal next May. So far, announced by The Lancet. This means Sputnik V has been registered in 60 Clean your hands that the Russian drug offers one of the countries. best rates of protection against the Russia plans to produce 88 million coronavirus. COVID-19 vaccines in the first half of Keep a safe distance The estimates are based on data from 2021. Of that amount, 83 million would people vaccinated by the Health correspond to Sputnik V. Ministry and covid-19 patients detected by the Unified State Health Information This article was first published by Wear a mask. Save lives. System. teleSUR. Page 14 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021

Hay una creciente tensión en La comprometidos con grandes sabemos hoy, en abril de 2021, es precursores de Price, Pollard, Joya, en la que figural el gobierno cantidades de dinero, que utilizaron que ya no se pueden ganar las Goldson y Richardson fueron recientemente elegido del Partido para hacer campaña y seducir a la elecciones generales sin mucho hombres que se opusieron a la clase Unido del Pueblo (PUP) mayoría de los votantes. O eso dinero. Este no fue el caso, sugiero, dirigente en su apogeo. Nunca enfrentándose a los sindicatos de parece. en los años cincuenta, sesenta, setenta tuvieron una oportunidad de éxito, trabajadores de Belize porque las Yo diría que los financistas de o quizás incluso en los ochenta. pero lucharon. Es deber de los finanzas del gobierno están en un campaña fueron muy influyentes en Las masas del pueblo beliceño poderes educativos reconocer en la estado desesperado. la aplastante victoria del PUP contra apoyaron al PUP en las elecciones muerte las contribuciones que estos Hay una ironía histórica aquí en el gobierno en funciones, el Partido generales de noviembre de 2020 y tempranos ‘’agitadores’’ —Haynes, que cuando el PUP ganó por primera Demócrata Unido (UDP en inglés) en en las elecciones municipales Lahoodie, Soberanis, Adderley y vez las elecciones nacionales en la las elecciones generales de 1998. nacionales de marzo de 2021. Pero Kemp— hicieron a la causa Honduras Británica colonial en 1954 Pero, la razón por la que fue ahora los sindicatos de trabajadores nacionalista, especialmente porque y 1957, fue como el PUP/GWU en aplastante fue porque las masas del están enojados con el nuevo gobierno en su propia vida fueron inglés (Sindicato General de pueblo beliceño, que creo que por tomar medidas para recortar sus vilipendiados casi universalmente y, Trabajadores). podemos describir como de clase salarios, y los sindicatos están a menudo, encarcelados. No El PUP se liberó del GWU a trabajadora, se habían vuelto hostiles básicamente señalando con el dedo vivieron para compartir los frutos tiempo para las elecciones generales a la administración del UDP del Dr. a la gente con mucho dinero detrás de los cambios por los que lucharon de 1961, las primeras bajo una nueva . de los políticos y haciendo preguntas y lo mínimo que podemos hacer es constitución ministerial, pero en Si decimos que el PUP “compró” serias. Belize parece estar en crisis. reconocer su contribución en una general se considera que el apoyo de por primera vez unas elecciones En la segunda parte de esta historia nacionalista”. (pág.148) los sindicatos fue fundamental en la generales en 1998, ¿cuándo fue que columna, quiero emitir algunas citas sorpresiva victoria del PUP en las el UDP “compró” por primera vez de un artículo del finado Peter “El registro muestra bastante elecciones generales de 1979, la unas elecciones generales? No creo Ashdown titulado THE PROBLEM claramente que Belize ingresó al elección que esencialmente catapultó que podamos decir 2008, porque OF CREOLE HISTORIOGRAPHY. siglo XX subdesarrollado NO a Belize a la independencia política hubo una ira masiva dirigida contra Ashdown, un historiador británico porque la Oficina Colonial y el en 1981. el PUP en funciones desde la base que parece haber sido un ideólogo Gobierno Colonial fueran Es difícil precisar cuándo las sindical. de izquierda, es un académico que indolentes o indiferentes, sino elecciones aquí comenzaron a ser Quizás podamos decir que el UDP desearía que todavía estuviera vivo, porque sus planes de desarrollo decididas por los financistas de “compró” las elecciones generales y desearía haberlo conocido, a pesar fueron saboteados por los miembros campañas o la oligarquía. En cierto de 2015 con dinero de PetroCaribe. de que criticó mi 1969 KNOCKING no oficiales del Consejo Legislativo. momento, los dos principales Pero no podemos hablar OUR OWN TING como “poco Esos señores, por su mayoría, partidos políticos quedaron definitivamente. Todo lo que convincente”. retuvieron el poder del dinero y el Las citas son de las páginas de la derecho a derogar la legislación Segunda Edición de READINGS IN inaceptable para ellos y, ya fueran BELIZEAN HISTORY, publicado en expatriados o criollos, se opusieron 1987 por BELIZEAN STUDIES deL sistemáticamente a cualquier Colegio San Juan y editado por Lita aumento de impuestos para Hunter Krohn. complementar los ingresos generales para la ejecución de A continuación se presentan tres obras públicas o servicios sociales. citas del artículo de Ashdown, con Defendieron acérrimamente la ley los números de página provenientes laboral arcaica y represiva hasta de las READINGS IN BELIZEAN que se vieron obligados a derogarla HISTORY antes mencionadas. en 1943. El gasto público en carreteras, educación, salud pública “La inherente falta de lógica en y vivienda se mantuvo nominal y tener dos versiones de la historia estático hasta que un desastre propia en Belize es un problema aún natural rompió la mayoría no oficial sin resolver. Si los gobernadores en 1932. Esa mayoría en su vida coloniales (por muy bien (1892-1932) incluía a muchos intencionados que sean), los hombres todavía muy considerados comerciantes explotadores y los como Padres de la Ciudad, algunos aristócratas criollos siguen siendo cuyos nombres aún se conservan en los héroes beliceños, entonces la la nomenclatura de las calles de la clase explotada y sus portavoces, ciudad, así como losas de granito Fred Gahne, Samuel Haynes, Tony en el cementerio Lord’s Ridge. En Soberanis y Luke Kemp - deben mi opinión, Benjamin Fairweather, seguir siendo los villanos de la James Cran, S.G. Woods, Carlos pieza. Estos señores no encajarán Melhado, el reverendo Robert todos en la misma cama. Tal es el Cleghorn, Sydney Cuthbert, problema de la historiografía Benjamin Stuart y varios otros criolla y cuanto antes se resuelva, (incluidos los miembros del consejo cuanto antes podrán los estudiantes legislativo de las décadas de 1930 beliceños del futuro afrontar una y 1940) no deben ser vistos como visión coherente de la realidad de los ‘representantes del pueblo’ (que su pasado”. (pág.147) afirmaban ser) defendiendo la causa de las masas contra el gobierno “... desde 1954 la estructura de arbitrario de la Calle Downing, pero poder ha cambiado y también las más bien vistos como una actitudes gobernantes. Parte de ese continuación de la oligarquía cambio de actitud debería haber elitista egoísta que fue el poder sido el reemplazo de los ‘héroes’ político en Belize desde sus inicios coloniales (Cran, Slack, Matthews como un asentamiento hasta que se y una variedad de comerciantes) por convirtió propiamente en una los de la clase trabajadora de Colonia de la Corona en 1932.” Belize. Esto es necesario, ya que los (pág. 151) Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 15

Tentacles to be as rubber stamps

“In medieval European feudal as human-beings. principles have several society (8th - 12th centuries), a Nevertheless, today, my interest is objectives such as anti-unionism, ‘middle class’ composed primarily in Belize and its rotten governance and to achieve the goal of of peasants who formed a new system and the rights of the working breaking that which was the ‘bourgeoisie’ based on the success class. But before I continue, let me backbone which gave birth to the of their mercantile ventures, remind the readers of this column that “People’s Committee”, to please eventually overthrew the ruling in the 1980s, the prime minister of someone else’s agenda, is called monarchies of their society and the United Kingdom, Margaret treason in my constitution. ultimately led to the rise of Thatcher, and the president of the We, “the little people down economic crisis. And for that reason, capitalist societies.” - Wikipedia, United States, Ronald Reagan, broke there”, believe heart and soul, that they urgently need teachers (BNTU) the free encyclopedia. the power of the labour unions in their the heads of governments had to and the workers of the Public The division of classes is an respected countries. In addition, invent an issue, and they decided to Service Union (PSU) to save the ancient governance system which, Thatcher forced the labor party to take advantage of momentous country of Belize. Could it be the with the passing of time and the abandon its commitment to circumstances. This has to do with 10% salary reduction or an excuse implementation of new structures, led nationalize industries. Belize’s a national debt which was created to break the National Trade Union to each class of people defending powers that be, the ruling class, have by unscrupulous political leaders of Congress of Belize and thereafter their own interest. However, the a different ideology on the two major political parties that form a new one with puppet leaders? class struggle had to reach a point nationalization from those of us leftist have functioned as the government After all, the system is set up to be where they realized that it was thinkers. In this modern era of of this country who made loans in ruled by a set of tentacles whose necessary to unite in order for them technology, the division of labour has the name of its people, but cannot functions are to be a rubber stamp. to fight for their rights. Within those surpassed the diverse fractions and give an account of it. No more than classes were the ones who belonged functions which are already present a pandemic had to appear, which [email protected] to the division of labour, etc., which as a result of the introduction of seemed to be the correct vehicle to April 16, 2021 are all important causes to know, as policies from the neoliberal use as an excuse, leading them to Finca Solana well as the universal rights we have capitalism philosophy. These claim that the country is in an Corozal Town 10 Afro-Mexicans who made history

Below is an intriguing article I of Independence. He held the city of Veracruz, in the La Huaca consisted of promoting respect and read, and would like to share with presidency of Mexico from April 1 neighborhood. Her paternal knowledge of the rights of women and you: to December 17, 1829. He was the grandfather, Don Severo Peregrino, Afro-descendant people in Mexico first president of Afro-descendant was Haitian and had emigrated to for more than twenty years. Peñaloza MÉXICO descent on the American continent. Mexico in the 19th century. This and México Negro AC fight for the Ana Elba Alfani Cazarin Guerrero was considered a mulatto, singer and actress was very famous constitutional recognition of black 4th June 2019 - matadornet.com according to the caste system of the for her interpretations of the boleros peoples in Mexico. They have colonial era. and tropical songs of the composer organized popular, academic and folk We have already told you about Gaspar Yanga Agustín Lara, who considered her forums, as well as events on Afro- the history of Afro-Mexicans, the He was the leader of a slave to be “the greatest songwriter of all descendants abroad. In 2017, he third root of our country, and we rebellion during the beginning of the time.” Lara created songs for her participated in the collection of have also delved into the inhabitants Spanish colonial rule in present-day like “Lamento Jarocho”, “Veracruz”, signatures with the goal of becoming of African origin in Veracruz. Today, Mexico. It is believed that he was a “Noche criolla”, “Oración Caribe”, a candidate for the presidency of I want to talk to you about these member of the royal family of “Palmera”, “La clave azul” and “La Mexico through an independent important Afro-Mexican characters Gabon. Yanga arrived in Veracruz as cumbancha”. candidacy, but did not obtain the who made history and who a slave, around 1570. He and his Álvaro Carrillo (1919 - 1969) desired success. In that same year, influenced the cultural life of our followers founded what is This great Mexican composer of he participated in the construction of country. considered the first free colony in popular music and originally from a constitutional reform proposal in José María Morelos y Pavón America, which they called San the Costa Chica of Oaxaca studied Mexico City, with the aim of (1765 - 1815) Lorenzo de los Negros. Five decades to be an agronomist, but his thing was recognizing Afro-descendants in a Known today as “the servant of after Independence, Yanga was to compose songs. He created more territorial way, without limiting the nation”, José María Morelos y named a national hero. Today a town than 300, and, among them, the most official recognition to legal visibility. Pavón was born in Valladolid (today in Veracruz bears his name. popular are “Sabor a mi”, “El Alejandra Robles “The Morelia, Michoacán) and was a Emiliano Zapata andariego” and “Pinotepa”. brunette” (1978) Mexican insurgent priest and A hero of the Mexican revolution Johnny Laboriel (1942-2013) Born in Puerto Escondido, in the soldier, considered the forger of the in 1910, he led a peasant army in His real name was Juan José region of the Costa Chica of the state second stage of the War of the Cuautla Valley and organized the Laboriel López. He was a Mexican of Oaxaca, she showed interest since Independence (1811-1815). He and peasant committees from which the rock singer who, along with she was a child in music and dance, his troops openly supported Afro- land tenure reform emerged. It is Angélica María, César Costa, especially for the sounds of Chilean descendants, slaves, and mestizos known that his family was Enrique Guzmán, Alberto Vázquez women of Guerrero and Oaxaca. during the armed movement in Tierra descended from indigenous people and Manolo Muñoz, was part of the She was always encouraged by her Caliente. When Morelos fell and Afro-descendants, from the so-called golden age of rock and roll father, who accompanied her on the prisoner of the royalist forces, he family photographs and because, in in Mexico. His group “Los rebeldes guitar, and inspired by her maternal was tortured by the Inquisition, who Cuautla, the mestizo and Afro- del rock” was the first rock group grandfather, an Afro-descendant declared him “a heretic, a descendant populations had been in Spanish at that time that managed from San Marcos, Guerrero, a blasphemer of the sacraments and a mixed for at least four generations to get a record released for them. traditional musician, a pioneer of traitor to God, the King and the with the indigenous people of the One of his most famous songs was trios in Oaxaca. Her musical style Pope.” Even the council that region. Rock del angelito. represents her Afro-Mexican and handled his case held that, due to Pío de Jesús Pico (1801-1894) Pedro Sergio Peñaloza Pérez Oaxacan roots. She studied classical his physical features, if he was not He was the last Mexican governor (1953) singing formally in Paris and at the sentenced to death, he should be of Alta California. He was the fourth Born in Cuajinicuilapa, Guerrero, Xalapa Conservatory of Music, deported to Africa. of 10 children of the marriage and this Afro-Mexican professor and Veracruz. Vicente Guerrero (1782-1831) his ancestry comes from a mixture activist is president of the anti-racist Vicente Ramón Guerrero Saldaña of African, Native American, organization México Negro AC, [email protected] was a Mexican politician and Spanish and other European roots. founded in 1997. He studied at the April 16, 2021 militant of the insurgency in the Toña la Negra (1912 - 1982) Autonomous University of Guerrero Finca Solana Resistance stage of the Mexican War Antonia Peregrino was born in the and his work as an activist has Corozal Town Page 16 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Covid-19: How India failed to BNTU members prevent a deadly second wave picket countrywide

Continued from Page 1 Office of the then Prime Minister „ Dean Barrow as Minister of Finance negotiate regarding cost-saving advising that these taxes that were measures, including government’s attributable to the previous owners proposed salary cuts, has rejected will be recovered by the government the now finalized 10% salary cut of Belize and I quote, ‘factored into and increment freezes. the value of the shares acquired for The Prime Minister, Hon. John which compensation is payable by Briceño, for the most part skirted the the Government of Belize. In this salary cuts in his 2021-2022 budget manner, the government will recover presentation, but confirmed that they the value of the taxes assessed.’ It would be put into effect this year. is on this basis that BTL strongly The PSU responded by serving maintains that it does not owe any notice to the Minister of Labour of taxes in arrears and that this matter an existing trade dispute and has was settled in 2010,” Lizarraga told since encouraged a “work-to-rule” local media. order among public servants. He said that he has reached out to Last Thursday, a PSU his former colleague in the , In early March, India’s health a place in sunlight”. Mr Modi was representative, Luke Martinez, Elena Smith, who is the national minister Harsh Vardhan declared the called a “vaccine guru”. lambasted the Briceño president of the BNTU, for country was “in the endgame” of the At the end of February, India’s administration during a scheduled clarification on their position and to Covid-19 pandemic. election authorities announced key Commission of Inquiry hearing on share the company perspective, but Mr Vardhan also lauded Prime elections in five states where 186 the fire-sale of government assets. has not since received a reply. Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership million people were eligible to vote He declared that the PSU believes Speednet Communication Limited as an “example to the world in for 824 seats. Beginning 27 March, that the proceedings are “a (SMART), for their part, shared that international co-operation”. From the polls would stretch over a month, mockery”, merely staged for the recent media reports which state January onwards, India had begun and in the case of the state of West political expediency. that they owe 11.1 million dollars shipping doses to foreign countries as Bengal, be held in eight phases. The following day the members in GST taxes, are false. part of its much-vaunted “vaccine Campaigning had begun in full swing, of the BNTU picketed in front of the It was confirmed by the Prime diplomacy”. with no safety protocols and social offices of Belize Telemedia Limited Minister himself that his sister, Mr Vardhan’s unbridled optimism distancing. and SMART, demanding that those Vanessa Briceño, was embroiled in was based on a sharp drop in reported In mid-March, the cricket board companies pay outstanding taxes, a back-and-forth with the tax infections. Since a peak of more than allowed more than 130,000 fans, before salaries are cut. department due to tax arrears, which 93,000 cases per day on average in mostly unmasked, to watch two Teachers manned the picket lines Hon. Briceño said were incorrectly mid-September, infections had international cricket games between countrywide. In Belize City, teachers tabulated. According to the PM, steadily declined. By mid-February, India and England at the Narendra chanted and picketed outside four interest and charges that accrued on India was counting an average of Modi stadium in Gujarat. locations: the Digi store on Regent the debt, should not have been 11,000 cases a day. The seven-day In less than a month, things began Street and the SMART office near charged, and as a result, the amount rolling average of daily deaths from to unravel. India was in the grips of a that location, in downtown Belize owed by Vanessa Briceño is far less the disease had slid to below 100. devastating second wave of the virus City, as well as the SMART than the estimates that are being The euphoria at beating the virus and cities were facing fresh headquarters on the Philip Goldson circulated by the media and the had been building since late last year. lockdowns. By mid-April, the country Highway and BTL’s main office on public. Politicians, policy makers and parts was averaging more than 100,000 St. Thomas Street. In a statement released just hours of the media believed that India was cases a day. On Sunday, India “We are actually picketing against after the protest in front of their truly out of the woods. In December, recorded more than 270,000 cases and the taxes, the huge taxes that are offices, Speednet Communication central bank officials announced that over 1,600 deaths, both new single- owed by these business places, Limited released a statement. India was “bending the Covid day records. specifically Smart and BTL. It is out “It has been reported in the media infection curve”. There was evidence, If the runway infection was not there, the salaries will be cut, but that Speednet Communications Ltd., they said, in poetic terms, that the checked, India could be recording these business places owe these also known as Smart, is indebted to economy was “breaking out amidst more than 2,300 deaths every day by huge taxes. Collect these taxes,” the the Government of Belize to the tune winter’s lengthening shadows towards first week of June, according to BNTU Belize district branch of 11.1 million dollars in GST taxes. a report by The Lancet Covid-19 president told one television news The report is false. As of 15th April Commission. reporter. 2021, Speednet Communication LTD Small COVID India is in now in the grips of a The companies were forced to has no outstanding taxes due to the public health emergency. Social media respond to the teachers’ claims later Government of Belize,” the release outbreak in San feeds are full with videos of Covid that afternoon. According to the stated. funerals at crowded cemeteries, Chairman of the BTL board, Mark The group of teachers also Cas warehouse wailing relatives of the dead outside Lizarraga, that company owes no protested in front of the Central hospitals, long queues of ambulances arrears in taxes. He stated that Bank offices. We later learned that carrying gasping patients, mortuaries whatever was owing to the the Joint Unions and several Cabinet BELIZE CITY, Mon. Apr. 16, 2021 overflowing with the dead, and government was cleared in the ministers had met there to engage in Last Thursday, Santiago Castillo patients, sometimes two to a bed, in settlement of the acquisition of BTL, discussions that started in the Limited closed their main warehouse corridors and lobbies of hospitals. brokered by the former prime morning. in Belize city on Slaughterhouse There are frantic calls for help for minister, Hon. Dean Barrow. This protest is only the start of Road after a few of its employees beds, medicines, oxygen, essential According to Lizarraga, because of planned industrial action to be tested positive for COVID-19. drugs and tests. Drugs are being sold this deal, since 2010, the company carried out by the unions in protest The company said it is currently on the black market, and test results has owed no outstanding taxes. of the 10% salary cuts and three-year carrying out sanitization of the are taking days. “They didn’t tell me “On November 30, 2010, the increment freeze instituted by the workplace and is in consultation with for three hours that my child is dead,” company received a letter from the Government of Belize. the Ministry of Health and Wellness. a dazed mother says in one video, “The San Cas group of companies sitting outside an ICU. Wails of another person outside the intensive care prioritizes the health and well-being can be heard on the following frequencies: of all our staff and customers. In doing punctuate the silences. 96.5FM in Belize City, Punta Gorda Town, so, we inform the public that a few The full version of this article can team members based at our Main be viewed at: https://www.bbc.com/ Santa Elena, Cayo and Carmelita Village; Warehouse on Slaughter House Road, news/world-asia-india-56771766 91.1FM in Ladyville and Independence; Belize City has tested positive for 101.1FM in Dangriga Town, Camalote COVID-19,” the company stated in a This article was first published by Village and Caye Caulker release. BBC news. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 17 The necessary transformation of the Caribbean agrifood system

table of consumers. ambitions in our work: better The second very powerful driver production, better nutrition, better of the necessary transformation of environment and better lives for all. agrifood systems is climate change. How do we get there? Hurricanes and droughts are First, by encouraging becoming more frequent and intense, technological innovation and affecting the already limited digitalization, value-adding, and Caribbean agricultural production. intraregional trade, which, together, This sector absorbs 25% of the total will drive productivity, reduce the damage and losses caused by extreme cost of healthy foods, and create climate events. It is simple: there is thousands of good jobs for youth. no future for Caribbean agrifood Second, making healthy diets for systems if they fail to adapt and everyone a core objective of national become far more resilient to climate and regional policy, as it is the change. foundation of the health of the These two necessary objectives population. This will require a cannot be achieved by each multi-pronged strategy, including by CARICOM country on its own. No mainstreaming nutrition in single country can produce and agricultural policies and by fostering provide healthy foods to all of its change in the food environments population, but more integrated with a wide range of tools, from Caribbean agrifood systems could taxing unhealthy foods, to including surely advance greatly in that nutrition education in school Will the world be able to feed 28% food importers, and at least seven direction. Also, no country on its own curricula. Third, invest in climate more people by 2050? How do we countries import more than 80% of will be able to ensure the resilience resilient agrifood systems, for ensure that we can all eat better and the food they consume. Worse, one of its domestic agrifood system when example by strengthening early healthier without mortgaging the third of the imported foods are the next category 4 hurricane strikes, warnings and response systems. Earth’s ability to produce food for energy dense, high in fat, sugar and but a more integrated Caribbean Finally, underpinning all, greater our grandchildren? These are very sodium, which explains the agrifood system could deliver the intra-regional policy coordination, challenging questions especially for exponential increase in ultra- necessary food supplies while the involving not only governments but the Caribbean, a region that unlike processed food consumption. affected countries recover their also private sector, civil society, and others in Latin America has an over- This contributes to world-record production. Regional action is not scientists. reliance on food imports even rates of overweight and obesity. The just convenient; it is a must when it In September 2021, Heads of State though there is a potential to produce incidence of adult obesity comes to building the agrifood and of Governments will come healthy and nutritious food. quadrupled from 6% in 1975 to systems of the future. together in New York at the United There are at least two powerful 28% in 2021. Alarmingly, For this reason, we celebrate Nations Food System Summit. The reasons that allow us to propose that overweight and obesity in children CARICOM’s COVID-19 Agri-food Caribbean can be present with a there is an imperative need to aged 5-9 years are two to three times Action Plan and the OECS Regional clear and forceful blueprint to reset transform the agrifood systems of higher than in the rest of the world. Plan of Action for Agriculture, both its agrifood systems so that they are the CARICOM, that is, the complex Unhealthy imported foods are cheap regional efforts for action that are fit for a better future for all of its network of private and public actors, for the consumer, although their cost imperative in addressing Caribbean peoples. activities, customs and traditions, to society is very high. In the challenges in the agrifood sector, regulations, and, physical and Caribbean, the cost of a healthy diet especially in the context of the economic conditions that determine is 3.8 times higher than that of a diet pandemic and its ongoing effects. what each person in the Caribbean that only meets the minimum caloric FAO is working in partnership eats every day. requirements. The future looks with Caribbean countries and First, the Caribbean needs to dismal if people in the Caribbean do regional organizations like the reduce its unhealthy and risky not go back to eating healthy foods, CARICOM and the OECS, to dependence on food imports. Most and this will require a support the transformation of of the CARICOM countries are net transformation from the farm to the agrifood systems. We have four United Nations launches US$29 million VACANCY VACANCY: Exists for a appeal for St. Vincent and the Grenadines Country Director; applicants must possess a Master’s or Bachelor’s The United Nations will launch aid including cash assistance and UNICEF Barbados and Eastern degree in Business Administration, a US$29.2 million global funding clean water, and support a Caribbean. It will be supported by be bilingual, possess a clean police appeal to help those affected by the sustainable recovery, including other UN agencies participating by record, and must be 40 years or eruptions of the La SoufrieÌre through repairs to homes and distance – UN Women, UNFPA, older. For further information volcano in St. Vincent and the support for livelihoods. The UN and PAHO, IOM, UNESCO, UNDP, contact us at 223-1931. Grenadines and other impacted partners will also assess the FAO, UNOPS , VACANCY: Employment countries. economic, social, and UNEP,OCHR. Director General of Opportunity. Flowers by Alma are The eruptions of the La environmental impact on countries the Organisation of the Eastern looking for a florist that has a SoufrieÌre volcano are expected to affected by the volcano, supporting Caribbean States, Didacus Jules, as minimum of 2 years formal work displace close to 20,000 persons with ash removal and improving well as Executive Director of experience in the industry. with over 12,700 evacuees now environmental health conditions. Caribbean Disaster Emergency Interested persons may call 203- registered in public shelters and in Another priority is to continue Management Agency 5395/673-5395. private homes. Entire villages have preventing the spread of COVID-19. (CDEMA), Elizabeth Riley, will VACANCY: Employment been covered in ashes, buildings The appeal will be launched also join the launch in support of opportunity within the agricultural damaged , schools and businesses on Tuesday 20 April, 9.30 AST by the appeal. sector/General Farm Employee, closed, crops and livestock the UN Resident This will be followed by a virtual Interested candidates must possess destroyed, and residents left with Coordinator, Didier Trebucq, press encounter at 11:00 a.m. AST, a current Police Record and be limited access to clean drinking alongside Prime Minister Ralph with the Resident Coordinator and Social Security registered. Call water. Further eruptions are Gonsalves and Regis Chapman, Prime Minister Gonsalves, 650-9083 for an appointment. expected in the coming weeks. Head of Caribbean Sub-regional moderated by the Secretary- VACANCY: KC Restaurant is Funding raised will provide Office for WFP and Aloys General’s Spokesperson Stephane looking for a security/maintenance. immediate lifesaving humanitarian Kamuragiye, Representative of Dujarric. Call 614-8192. Page 18 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Cuba has a new leader and it’s not a Castro

“I never believed that rumour,” vice president (of the council of says former Cuban diplomat ministers) in 2012, shortly after Carlos Alzugaray. “He was in he himself had replaced his brother charge, probably in direct Fidel as first secretary of the party. consultation with Raúl Castro. It was the first real indication that But I think the signal is that he’s Díaz-Canel was being prepared in charge of everything now. He for power. stands way over everybody else.” The makeup of the new An electrical engineer by Politburo that will guide Cuba training, Díaz-Canel has for much through the next years was also of his life been a party functionary, announced Monday. Its members albeit a fast-rising one. He was face huge challenges as the state born a year after the revolution, struggles with the coronavirus, in Villa Clara, the province where United States sanctions, Che Guevara broke the will of crumbling infrastructure and Fulgencio Batista’s troops, embedded bureaucracy. bringing about the revolution. “The main challenge will be People who knew him as a economic,” says Jorge Duany, young man said he was a witty director of the Cuban Research by Ruaridh Nicoll the 1959 revolution. and personable party secretary in Institute at Florida International The move, announced Monday, Villa Clara and then Holguin in University. “This is not really CUBA. Mon. Apr. 19th 2021— was widely expected. It means the eastern Cuba. He was also praised rocket science. It’s recognition Aljazeera tall, silver-haired 60-year-old as a thorough and engaged that Cuba is facing the worst Miguel Díaz-Canel has been now holds Cuba’s two most minister of higher education. But economic crisis since the early named first secretary of the Cuban important positions, head of the since rising to national 1990s.” Communist Party (PCC), the most party and president of the state, prominence, he has seemed to In the appointments to the powerful role on the island. He and buries rumours that he was a strike a distant and difficult-to- Politburo, Raúl Castro has made will be the first person without placeman, subject to more read figure. good his promise to rejuvenate the the name Castro to run Cuba since powerful forces. Raúl Castro first appointed him leadership. Two veterans of the revolution, 90-year-old José Ramón Machado Ventura and 88- year-old Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, A Biden-Putin Summit: Jaw- have retired with him. His promise to diversify the Jaw is Better than War-War leadership looks less impressive: only three of the 13-strong inner circle are women, and there don’t the US-backed coup there in 2014 seem to be many new non-white is a de facto invasion and faces. occupation of Ukraine itself — The most significant new those things establish, rather than member is Raúl Castro’s former contradict, the fact that Putin is a son-in-law, Luis Alberto key actor on the world political Rodríguez López-Calleja. He runs stage. GAESA, the business wing of the Nor, no matter what we think of military that controls much of Putin, can we deny that the Russian Cuba’s economy, building hotels Federation would have real and and running financial services, vexing grievances with the US supermarkets and imports and whether he was running things or exports. not. López-Calleja is said to wield In 1990, as eastern Europe’s huge influence. He travelled with communist regimes began to Díaz-Canel to the United Nations disintegrate, western diplomats and to Russia to meet Vladimir assured their Russian counterparts Putin. He was sanctioned by the that peaceful dissolution of the US in September 2020. Warsaw Pact would not result in Another new member is Prime by Thomas L. Knapp 150 million. He commands a NATO’s expansion eastward. They Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, nuclear arsenal rivaling that of the broke their word. NATO has since believed to be a close ally of On April 13, US president Joe US, and armed forces of similar gobbled up much of the territory López-Calleja. He has impressed Biden spoke by phone with size but with a seemingly much in question, impinging Russia’s Cubans as personable on Mesa Russian president Vladimir Putin, better 21st century record of sphere of influence and massing Redonda, the round table that is whom he has previously referred accomplishing their objectives militarily on its borders. From the broadcast to the nation and that has to, in pot/kettle fashion, as a instead of getting bogged down in Russian perspective, the pro- been an important source of news “killer.” During the call, Biden decades-long “counter- NATO coup in Ukraine was during the coronavirus pandemic. proposed a summit between the insurgency” and “nation-building” apparently the last straw. As Díaz-Canel assumed the role two in the near future. quagmires ending in embarrassing At the moment, the Russia- of first secretary on Monday, he Writing in the Wall Street defeats. Ukraine conflict is more or less told the closing meeting of the 8th Journal, Russian chess legend and Even if we accept as undiluted “frozen.” But if it thaws toward Congress of the PCC that he would political exile Garry Kasparov truth every bad thing Kasparov war pitting US and NATO troops remain in close contact with Raúl denounces the idea: “A summit? tells us about Putin — that he’s a against Russian forces there likely Castro, continuing to discuss all With a killer? In one stroke, Mr. dictator kept in power by won’t be any winners. strategic decisions. Biden gave Mr. Putin exactly what oligarchs, that he ruthlessly In 1958, British prime minister The full version of this article he craves, equal status with the suppresses domestic political Harold Mcmillan, paraphrasing can be viewed at: https:// president of the United States.” opposition, that his regime predecessor Winston Churchill, www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/4/ Kasparov is mistaken. Putin meddles in US elections and hacks held that “jaw-jaw is better than 19/cuba-has-a-new-leader-and-its- already enjoys that equal status. US computer systems, and that his war-war.” He was right. Joe Biden not-a-castro He rules a country spanning two support for independent republics and Vladimir Putin need to have a This article was first published continents, with a population of which seceded from Ukraine after long, serious talk. by Aljazeera. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 19 George Floyd: US city on edge as jury deliberates Chauvin verdict

UNITED STATES. Minneapolis. Mon. showing Mr Chauvin kneeling on Mr police officers “as they continue to that lasted three weeks. The April 19, 2021—BBC News Floyd for more than nine minutes last work to keep the peace in our prosecution then had another The jury in the trial of Derek May. “This wasn’t policing; this was communities”. opportunity to rebut Mr Nelson’s Chauvin, the ex-police officer accused murder,” he added. The streets around the court were arguments before the jury was sent to of killing George Floyd last year, has The footage of Mr Chauvin, who is quiet on Monday morning, but local deliberate. Jurors could take a short retired to weigh up its verdict. white, restraining Mr Floyd, a black residents are waiting to see what will amount of time or days to decide Security has been ramped up around man, on the floor as he shouted “I can’t happen once the verdict is reached. whether to convict former Minneapolis the court building in the US city of breathe” spurred months of global One activist tells me they are police officer Mr Chauvin. Minneapolis, which is protected by protests against racism in 2020. planning to hit the streets, regardless The jury will have to consider barbed wire, high barriers and armed The trial of Mr Chauvin has been of what kind of verdict is rendered. If testimony heard from 45 witnesses, soldiers from the National Guard. described as a pivotal moment for race the jurors decide that Derek Chauvin including doctors, use-of-force experts, “This was murder,” the prosecutor relations and policing in the US. Cities is not guilty on all counts, or guilty only police officers, bystanders and people said in closing arguments on Monday. across the country are bracing for of manslaughter - a lesser charge - the who were close to Mr Floyd. The defence argued that Mr Chauvin protests regardless of whether the jury activists will march. The full version of this article can had correctly followed police training. decides to convict or acquit Mr But even if he is found guilty on all be viewed at: https://www.bbc.com/ He behaved as any “reasonable Chauvin of murder and manslaughter counts, the activists will still march - news/world-us-canada-56806961 police officer” would, lead lawyer Eric charges. “a celebratory protest”, as one of them Nelson said, adding the circumstances On Monday the governor of put it.In that case, the campaigners will This article was first published by surrounding Mr Floyd’s death gave rise Minnesota, Tim Walz, requested take to the streets to show their BBC News. to reasonable doubt. security assistance from the states of satisfaction with the verdict, and to But prosecutor Steve Schleicher Ohio and Nebraska ahead of the demand justice for the others who have urged jurors to “use your common verdict. died while in police custody. Big rise in numbers of sense. Believe your eyes. What you Walz thanked Ohio and Nebraska for The prosecution and the defence saw, you saw,” referring to the video helping Minnesota’s state troopers and made their closing statements in a trial migrant children on Mexico-US border

Washington, D.C. USA. Mon. Apr. 19th 2021—BBC The number of migrant children trying to reach the US from Mexico has increased ninefold since the start of 2021, UN children’s agency Unicef says. The rise from 380 to nearly 3,500 has overwhelmed the facilities at Mexico’s reception centres, it says. The children are mainly from Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico itself. Half arrived without parents. Nearly 300 children are added to their number every day, as they wait to cross into the US or are sent back. In border towns like Reynosa migrant families are establishing makeshift camps. “We are deeply concerned that living conditions for migrant children and mothers in Mexico could soon deteriorate further,” said Jean Gough, Unicef’s regional director for Latin America and the Caribbean. Many families will end up attempting to send their children over the border unaccompanied or via people traffickers, in the hope that - once inside the US - President Joe Biden’s administration will reunite them with family members there, reports the BBC’s Latin American correspondent Will Grant. However, the Mexican government has recently sent troops to its southern border to clamp down on migration north, and many more unaccompanied young people and migrants’ families are likely to be detained in the coming weeks, our correspondent says. Last week, President Biden reversed course hours after signing an order to keep the number of refugees admitted annually to the US at Trump-era levels. Reports say Mr Biden is concerned about letting in more people amid a record influx at the US-Mexico border.

This article was first published by BBC News. Page 20 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, April 20, 2021