#NationalBasketballChampions

[newsbites]

News from Belize, 11 July

The Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV) ventured to the Belize Defence Force's Forward Operating Base (FOB) at the Sarstoon River, which has been abandoned for over a year.

The BTV wants to maintain a presence at the FOB due to the ongoing territorial dispute with Guatemala and the importance of the area in the ICJ case.

The government has now acknowledged the importance of the FOB and is working to allocate funds for repairs, but the BTV is willing to assist in rebuilding the base.

2. A woman in Progresso Village was stabbed to death during an argument.

3. During a Senate meeting, Senator Kevin Herrera criticized Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) for not exploring alternative energy sources such as solar power.

Herrera mentioned that when Mexico had supply issues, it could have resulted in blackouts for Belize. Herrera blamed the lack of options on the country's policies and regulators, stating that they had not done enough to prevent this situation. He also highlighted that without Mexican supply, there are currently no other viable options, except for domestic supply, which barely meets demand.

Herrera warned that if it wasn't for the rains in July, there could have been a major crisis with severe consequences for businesses and households.

4. Belize has embraced CARICOM's decision for free movement of CARICOM nationals, allowing for unlimited movement among member countries.

The decision does not impact Belize's current laws surrounding migration, as immigration officers will still interview CARICOM nationals to determine if they meet entry requirements.

The implementation of unlimited free movement is expected to be completed by March of next year.

5. The People's United Party is grieving the loss of Winston Smiling. 

6. The Benny's Belize Hurricanes won the 2023 national basketball title, their third championship victory in the Belize Elite Basketball League.

In other news,

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Eamon Courtenay, stated that he is not concerned about Ben Juratowich misunderstanding government instructions.

The Senate approved an inquiry into the Definitive Agreement, with all 13 Senators in favor. Senator Eamon Courtenay supported the motion but expressed concerns about potential issues for the government.

Several individuals were remanded to prison for various crimes.