Belize Times September 6, 2015

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

6 SEPTEMBER 2015 | ISSUE NO: 4961

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz | $1.00

Sweet Deal for Brother B

Belize City, September 1, 2015 “All the skeptics, the Chicken Littles that decry a GOB takeover on the ground that it will lessen efficiency need to screw their courage to the sticking place. This time no stand like before time. The bad old days of political interference in statutory bodies or Government-owned companies, are gone forever.” – Prime Minister Dean Barrow, June 20th 2011 Prime Minister Dean Barrow proved the sceptics very right on Monday August 31st, as he put on a plastic smile and huddled to the tune of cumbaya with executive representatives of the very same company that he booted out of the Belize Electricity Limited under the guise of “unavoid-

able public interest reasons” in June 2011.

Now, PM Barrow, whose administration has been economically haemorrhaging and letting off a distasteful scent to possible investors and partners, as a result of the actions taken against BEL, among others, has had to welcome “big, bad” Fortis Inc. back into the fold.

The Prime Minister’s big announcement was that after a long period of negotiations, an out-of-court settlement has been reached ending a four-year long bitter dispute between the Government and Canada-based, Fortis Inc. Fortis has gotten the sweetest deal ever. They have

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GUNMEN EXECUTE

Hon. Dolores condemns UDP’s Bad Governance

RUSSELL HYDE & GIRLFRIEND, MARCY HUMES Pg. 20

Russell Hyde

Belmopan Mayor threatens to leave 30 families homeless

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Pg. 4

Marcy Humes

Francis Defends Sarstoon…

Dean Rages!

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NO TO BARROW, NO TO ICJ

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

Hon. Dolores condemns UDP’s Bad Governance

Hon. Dolores Balderamos-Garcia

4 Sep

5 Sep

Exchange rate of One Belize Dollar

6 Sep

United States (USD): $ 0.50

Barbados (BBD): $ 1.00

7 Sep

8 Sep

Eastern Caribbean Euro (XCD):$ 1.35 (EUR) : $ 0.47

9 Sep

Sterling Pound Guatemala Quetzal CANADIAN DOLLAR (GBP): $ 0.34 (GTQ): $ 3.82 (CAD): $ 0.64

CHINESE YUAN (CNY): $ 3.14

Trinidadian (TTD) : $ 3.19

INDIAN RUPEE (INR): $ 31.31

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2015

THE BELIZE TIMES

Sweet Deal for Brother B

Continued from page 1

been awarded $70 million dollars and given a huge bite into GOB-held shares in the company (33.3% for Fortis Inc.) as the primer to the settlement.

These shares are currently valued at $63 million.

Altogether, the payment package for Fortis represents a value of $133 million. When compared to the Government’s initial offer of $75 million as compensation for the 70% shares expropriated, the current deal is a steal for Fortis. More lucrative, is that Fortis’ new 33.3% shares will ensure that the company collects 1/3 of BEL’s profits annually.

BEL made $36 million in profits last year reportedly. If this repeats next year, Fortis will be collecting $12 million easily. And there is more.

Fortis also gets to appoint three directors on the all-powerful Board of Directors. They will join the Prime Minister’s legal partner Rodwell Williams who was appointed the Chairman in 2011.

And then there is the icing on the cake. Fortis gets full tax exemptions on all these deals. They won’t pay any stamp duty on the share transfer that would attract 5% duty fee or $3.3 million; they will neither pay the 1.25% stamp duty on the exchange control permit for the $70 million they will receive amounting to $790,000. Additionally, all future dividends will be converted to U.S. currency for them and repatriated to Canada with all permits similarly exempted. And those dividends paid to Fortis will be exempt from the 25% income tax.

To move ahead with the settlement, the Barrow Administration had to seek approval from the House of Representatives. This was done on Wednesday, September 2nd as the UDP Government, with majority control, pushed through the three motions to approve the Electricity Acquisition Settlement Bill. But it didn’t take place without the Opposition exposing the Government’s

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“Shareholders Agreement” refers to the shareholders agreement, in the Agreed Form, to be initially entered into by the Government and the Fortis Shareholder, and to subsequently be adhered to by BSSB, setting out certain rights and obligations of the Government, BSSB and Fortis Shareholder as shareholders of BEL; and

fraudulence.

“This settlement comes at a high cost and heavy price that Belize will continue to pay well into the future past the point where Fortis is compensated. The reality of what we have here is a pseudonationalist PM facing real and imminent defeat and embarrassment before the CCJ once again trying to beat his chest and claim victory. The emptiness of that boast has been fully exposed for all to see,” remarked the Opposition Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca.

Hon. Fonseca demanded that Prime Minister Barrow tell Belizeans how much his family and circle of political friends have benefitted from the deal. For four years, the Government has had to pay his brother, Deny Barrow, who acted as Government’s attorney on the matter. For four years, his law firm partner, Rodwell Williams, has been the Chairman of the company’s Board. Others who sit on the Board are Alan Slusher, Jeffrey Locke, UDP Standard Bearer Eden Martinez, John Mencias, Anthony Michael and UDP Standard Bearer Beverly Castillo.

Undoubtedly brother B has collected millions of tax dollars for his service. The attorneys hired by the Government at the Solicitor General Department and Attorney General’s Ministry are useless to the Prime Minister, who prefers to pay millions to his choice attorneys.

If ever Belizeans needed clear evidence of how the Barrow Administration is managing Belize under a system of crony capitalism, this is it.

“Transaction Documents” means this Deed, the Deed of Assurance and the Shareholders Agreement.

2.

CONSIDERATION

2.1

In consideration of the full and final settlement, release and compromise by the Fortis Companies of the Claims as provided for in Clause 3 of this Deed, the Government hereby grants the Put Option and agrees to perform the obligations at Sub-clause 2.1(a) and 2.1(b) below (each, a “Closing Obligation” and, collectively, “the Closing Obligations”). (a)

The Government shall, as soon as reasonably practicable following the date of this Deed and in any event no later than 7 September 2015, pass legislation and/or take such executive action as may be required by law to: (i)

(ii)

authorise the Government to: (A)

enter into this Deed;

(B)

to make the payment to Fortis Cayman Inc. pursuant to Sub-clause 2.1(b)(i);

(C)

enter into the Put Option entered into between the Government and the Fortis Shareholder as a part of this Deed; and

(D)

pay to the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee), if it becomes obligated to do so following exercise of the Put Option, the consideration for the Fortis Shares.

confer on the Fortis Companies: (A)

full exemption from stamp duty (if any) payable on the transfer of the Shares to the Fortis Shareholder;

(B)

full exemption from the payment of stamp duty payable on foreign exchange permits on the purchase of foreign exchange by the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) in respect of all future dividends and distributions paid by BEL to the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) and in respect of any payment received pursuant to the Tag-Along provisions set out at clause 9 of the Shareholders Agreement; 4

0101915-0000001 NY:23038050.23

(C)

full exemption from all taxes payable on all dividends and distributions paid: (i) by BEL to the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee); and (ii) by the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) to its parent company or its shareholders, from time to time (including exemption from withholding of tax as required by section 22 of the Income and Business Tax Act as amended from time to time) and in respect of any payment received pursuant to the Tag-Along provisions set out at clause 9 of the Shareholders Agreement;

(D)

full exemption from the provisions of the Exchange Control Regulations Act and Regulations made thereunder from time to time in respect of the transfer of the Shares by the Government to the Fortis Shareholder and future dividends and distributions paid: (i) by BEL to the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee); (ii) by the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) to its parent company or its shareholders; and (iii) on consideration paid by the Government to the Fortis Shareholder in the event that the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) exercises the Put Option and in respect of any payment received pursuant to the Tag-Along provisions set out at clause 9 of the Shareholders Agreement; and

(E)

full exemption from any and all taxes, duties, charges, fees and imposts (if any) payable by the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) on consideration received by the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) from the Government in the event that the Fortis Shareholder (or its transferee) exercises its option pursuant to the terms of the Put Option or exercises and in respect of any payment received pursuant to the Tag-Along provisions set out at clause 9 of the Shareholders Agreement,

(collectively, “the Legislation”). (b)

The Government shall, on the business day following the Legislation being enacted: (i)

pay Thirty Five Million dollars in the currency of the United States of America (US$35,000,000.00) in immediately available funds to Fortis Cayman Inc. by wire transfer into a bank account at a bank that carries on business outside of Belize, which shall be notified to the Government by Fortis Cayman Inc. in accordance with the notification provisions in Clause 12 of this Deed;

(ii)

transfer the Shares to the Fortis Shareholder and: (i) take (and procure that BEL take or procure to be taken) such corporate actions as are required by the Act and the Constitutional Documents or otherwise to have the Fortis Shareholder entered on the register of members of BEL as the holder of the Shares; and (ii) procure that BEL issue a share certificate to the Fortis Shareholder in respect of the Shares;

(iii)

execute and deliver the Shareholders Agreement;

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Belmopan Mayor threatens to leave 30 families homeless City of Belmopan, August 28, 2015 Over thirty families residing along a narrow strip of land in the outskirts of Maya Mopan in the City of Belmopan have been threatened by Belmopan Mayor Khalid Belisle.

The families have been told that if they don’t leave the land the Belmopan City Council will tear down their small homes.

Four homes were destroyed last week, apparently in a move to intimidate the other residents who have been told that they have two weeks to move or else.

Homes destroyed by the cold-hearted UDP The BELIZE TIMES visited the area last Friday and discovered that the residents are fearful that the actions of the cold and callous UDP Belmopan City Council will leave them homeless.

66 year old Reyes Cal was not at home when a bulldozer arrived in the area last week. His house sits nearest to the access road and so it was the first one targeted. But Cal’s daughter, who lives a short distance away, yelled at the destruction crew and begged them not to destroy her father’s home.

They told her they would return and moved to break apart the neighbours’ house, which was lying in pieces, flattened, tattered and scattered along with three others.

“I feel bad dat dem do dis and not even giv wi notice. They treat we like animals,” Cal said while sitting on the front porch of his small board house.

His wife, Tomasa, sat behind him with a stern but concerning look on her face. His son, Epifanio, stood near the house, fixated on the demolition site.

Cal said he has been living on the land for over three years.

He found the land vacant and bushy. Like many,

6 SEP

2015 Reyes Cal, his wife Tomasa & Epifanio will defend their rights

many Belizeans frustrated with the failed land system, he cleared the land and began to construct a house. Near him a house had already been built. An entire neighbourhood eventually sprung out.

Cal said he has invested over $8,000 in his small but humble home.

In his yard, he has planted fever grass, pepper trees and some spices.

Some of his neighbours have larger homes and have more evidence of sweat and tears on their yards.

Francisco Chub has been living on his portion of the land since 2008. His four children grew up there for most of their lives. When we arrived at his home, his eldest son was preparing to go to high school.

Beside his house is another structure, where his grandfather lives. On Continued on page 18

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2015

THE BELIZE TIMES

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EDITORIAL

Barrow’s Failed “Nationalisation”

T

he Peoples’ United Party reiterates its principled position of concern over the manner in which the current UDP Administration is managing the debt obligations of Belize.

In 2011, when the Prime Minister, seized all the assets of Fortis Inc. in Belize Electricity Limited, claiming that his government was acting in the face of a crisis, he boasted of a nationalistic approach to the acquisition of public utilities. He had harsh words for Fortis Inc. as a strategic investor, and for BEL’s management at the time.

In order to achieve his ends, the Prime Minister, using his parliamentary super-majority subverted the Constitution of Belize, bending its architecture in a violent and unnatural manner, in gross and indecent haste, in an ill-conceived, poorly structured move to undermine Fortis as an investor.

Once again, in making and announcing a settlement with Fortis Inc., the Prime Minister has employed bully tactics. This was discussed at a Monday Cabinet meeting, announced in the afternoon, draft legislation was provided on Tuesday.

He will force 3 readings and passage in the House on Wednesday, approval of the Senate on Friday morning, and assent by the Governor General, and gazetting in the same afternoon. That is less than 96 hours to “make a deal”. On Monday next, the payment of $70 million will be made.

We have been down this road before – in 2011.

Now the PM is forced to walk back his wrongful actions. The greatest crisis facing Belize today is undeniably a total lack of confidence in the UDP maladministration rocked by scandal after scandal, and marked by petty vindictive political persecution of Belizeans and foreign investors alike. Our economy and fiscal outlook has never been as unsafe and unsecure as it is today. We have become, thanks to the

“Borrow” administration, a debt slave nation, leaning on lenders to prop up our failing balance of payments, and causing our banks to be jettisoned by correspondent Banks because of risk.

The Prime Minister owes it to Belizeans to immediately and fully disclose the real cost of the seizure of BEL, and the settlement arrived at, in real terms - including all the legal costs which have been paid to all attorneys who have worked in behalf of BEL/GOB and in particular, Barrow & Co. Is this deal good for the Belizean people? How have we felt any benefit? What has been conceded to Fortis including serious tax breaks for life?

The utterly reckless, cynical and misguided policies of the present administration have added to the cause of our nation’s indebtedness and fiscal fragility by increasing debt, and refusing, until now to deal with the seizure of assets by major investors.

As a responsible Opposition, we are glad that a settlement has been arrived at but we remind that it has come at a high cost and a heavy price that Belize will continue to pay, well into the future, past the point where Fortis is compensated. History will judge whether Barrow will in fact be absolved, or held culpable. It is this very Prime Minister who has subverted the Supreme Law of Belize, now is claiming triumph four short years later in this “settlement”.

Before Belize can be restored as a fiscally secure nation we must restore confidence as a law-biding nation; where our laws and institutions are honoured, where our government is accountable to the people and where the politics of hypocrisy and vindictiveness is replaced by a genuine political undertaking involving the participation of all committed to a vision of national social and economic renewal.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

UDP Window Dresser

Contributed Dr. Carla Barnett in a letter to the editor dated August 12, 2015 published in the Amandala for Sunday August 16, 2015 shared some charts using data from the Central Bank of Belize’s website in relation to the evolution of Belize’s public external debt.

Dr. Barnett indicated that much of the discussion regarding Belize’s indebtedness has been drawn along Party lines to which clearly the doctor has penned her article. I do agree that the Jewel’s public debt gives cause for a healthy discussion, but it is imperative that the facts be imparted in an accurate fashion if it is to be contributed positively regarding Belize’s macroeconomic policies.

Conveniently Dr. Barnett has slung her political arrow to deceive the public that the People’s United Party administration has been responsible for the accumulating of the largest additions to the external debt totalling some BZE $1452.4 million between 1998-2003 and 20032008.

Prior to August 21, 1998 under a United Democratic Government, Belize was experiencing what the Honorable Said Musa characterized as a “Potemkin Economy”. The UDP in their trifling attempt to garner an election victory of ’98 has set up false fronts utilizing rhetoric and propaganda to mislead the electorate that the country was wallowing in prosperity. In reality poverty was rising, the social order was spiralling out of control and the economy was in shambles.

The People’s United Party won the election of ’98. When the PUP entered office they were faced with the gargantuan task of reversing Belize’s economic decline to “return Belize to a path of growth with equity”.

Dr. Barnett’s contribution in the Amandala is solely concentrated on the accumulation of debt by the UDP and PUP. However, her facts will not disclose that upon the People’s United Party taking office in ’98 they were forced not only with the restoring and repairing of a crumbling infrastructure but a thousand and one problems that were facing an abandoned and neglected people of Belize. Matters worsened for the PUP government when a series of hurricanes hit our shores. Mitch in 1998, Keith in 1999, Iris and Chantal in 2001, and Dean in 2007. These storms affected Belize’s Tourism and Agricultural Sectors as well as infrastructure – roads, bridges, electricity, water and housing. The cost was estimated at well over one billion dollars.

Dr. Carla Barnett’s graphs are possibly an even graver attempt to mislead readers regarding the spike in Belize’s indebtedness during 1998-2003 and 20032008 as reckless. With complementing information regarding the rationale in the spending during those periods the public will see through her deceit.

Monies borrowed in the periods 1998-2003 and 2003-2008 must be considered purposeful debt which was vital to the recovery from the political storm left by the United Democratic Party prior to August 21, 1998 and the subsequent

6 SEP

2015

SOLAR MASTER INTERNATIONAL LIMITED #128,450 (“the Company”) Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, notice is hereby given that SOLAR MASTER INTERNATIONAL LIMITED:

a) is in dissolution b) commenced dissolution on the 31st day of August, 2015; and c) JHANG, YU-CIAO whose address is 2F., No.17, Ln.236, Sec.3, Chongqing N. Rd., Datong Dist., Taipei City 10374, Taiwan is the Liquidator of the Company Dr. Carla Barnett has begun her political career by deceiving the people of Belize storms unleashed by Nature. The investments made were legitimate in the rebuilding of the Jewel and stabilizing of the financial sector on the path to Belize’s recovery. The financial downturn of the global economy and its effects on Belize during the latter period of 2003-2008 must be considered in explaining the matter of the debt during the 1998-2008.

However, Dr. Carla Barnett, the highsalaried leather-couch warmer who is now the UDP’s odd choice as standard bearer for Freetown, has begun her political career by deceiving the good people of Belize. She has conveniently chosen not to disclose the hundreds of millions of dollars funded by the late Comandante Hugo Chavez to alleviate the conditions of the marginalised and poverty stricken populace of Belize. Notwithstanding the millions funded by various international agencies to develop the lives of the downtrodden. Dr. Barnett’s data fails to bring to the fore the reckless spending of the poor people’s money since their coming into office in 2008. The records will show that this UDP Government has been illegally spending the Petrocaribe monies in blatant violation of the Finance and Audit (Reform) Act since 2012.

Dr. Carla Barnett, has your Party and the UDP Government violated the Finance and Audit Reform Act to which you were one of the architects?

Dr. Carla Barnett, should the Prime Minister Dean Oliver Barrow be subjected to penalties enacted by the 2010 amendment of the Finance and Audit (Reform) Act? Dr. Carla Barnett, was the Petrocaribe Loans Act a necessary replacement for the Finance and Audit (Reform) Act? Seemingly Dr. Barnett has fallen to the level of window dresser, forced on her by the dictates of her party politics. Dr. Barnett has become contented with the transgressions of the Prime Minister and the UDP administration. The utterance might be that the transgressions were committed with good intention. However, as Dr. Carla Barnett had once declared, similarly the transgression could be committed with bad intention.

Dr. Barnett’s political intents are not to serve the people of Belize much less the good people of Freetown. Rather her intents are to serve her Party, first and foremost. Her die is cast in the political world of UDP politics as a mere political window dresser for the United Democratic Party. Machete will fly.

Cititrust International Limited Registered Agent

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

WOMAN IN THE HOUSE

By Dolores Balderamos Garcia

KATRINA AND ERICA Some time ago I wrote a piece called “Lavern and Nora” on the important issue of domestic violence. Today I write on a much different, though no less compelling, topic – that of tropical storms and hurricanes and the need for eternal vigilance in Belize and our region.

This past week the United States and New Orleans commemorated the Ten Year Anniversary of super/ mega Hurricane Katrina. Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Bill Clinton, George Bush and Barack Obama have all attended memorials in New Orleans. In August 2005 Katrina ravaged New Orleans and the Southern US Gulf Coast.

2,000 people perished and over 1 million displaced. It was the most expensive natural disaster in US history. The failure of the levee system in New Orleans left 80% of the city under water.

In the Lower Ninth Ward, populated mainly by poor African American peo-

ple, storm waters burst through. It was the hardest hit area of the city.

The commemoration ceremonies were of course about moving forward, while never forgetting those who were killed. All speakers said it was important to remember everyone affected.

A huge amount of rebuilding has been done. There is no doubt much more left to do. And many, particularly in the black community, feel left behind.

Public housing is now too expensive for many poor black people. The population of New Orleans now has 100,000 less African American persons.

The Bush Administration has been severely criticized over the slow response, and according to most news reports, this issue remains a source of deep resentment. While in New Orleans, President Obama acknowledged that Katrina became a man-made disaster due to the failure of the American government to look out for its citizens.

The community center where he gave his address is, he said, a symbol of extraordinary resilience. But many homes and buildings remain untouched.

The “Comeback City” still has a long way to go. He said, and very rightly so, that cities and countries must invest in storm preparation. Billions of federal dollars, largely spurred by Obama, have flowed into New Orleans, which, as reported, is famous for its Jazz music, unique food, and party culture. But income inequality and crime are major issues confronting the rebuilding efforts.

I never forget sitting at a dinner in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, with colleague Commonwealth Election Observers in October 2005. An Australian colleague, white of course, opined that New Orleans people should have helped themselves during Katrina. I, along with Caribbean and African colleagues, figuratively jumped all over him for his insensitivity and uncaring attitude.

We let him know forcefully that it is government’s responsibility to ensure the safety of citizens. Look what happened in New Orleans, USA, without proper response from authorities. Incredible negligence and slow and inadequate response, of course mostly affecting the poorest of the poor!!

Belizeans may not be fully aware that Tropical Storm Erica rushed through our sister Caribbean nation of Dominica this past week, leaving a path of widespread and monumental devastation, setting the country back, according to Prime Minister Roos-

07 7 evelt Skerritt, some twenty years!!

Some fifteen inches of rain fell on the mountainous island, leaving 20 persons dead and over 31 missing.

Prime Minister Skerritt described the devastation and loss of life as “heart wrenching.” Fourteen bodies were recovered from the southern community of Petite Savanne.

Many communities are unrecognizable in this serious national tragedy for Dominica.

Our government should respond with quick solidarity assistance for our neighbor. I don’t know enough about Dominica to assess whether their government could have expected or prepared better for the extent of damage from the torrential rainfall.

Let us not think that it cannot happen here. We may be experiencing seriously dry conditions at the moment, but let us be ever mindful and prepared for dangerous storms and hurricanes. For example, in the event of a severe storm system approaching, every single available bus should be commandeered by authorities to evacuate Belizeans to safety, and other preparations must be made for food, water and other essentials. We have to cry for our sister Caricom nation and give the help we can. We must heed the lessons of Katrina and, just this past week, of Erica. My dad was a Boy Scout. And we know their motto: Be Prepared!!!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

6 SEP

2015

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

Belizean Beauty

Shied

• • • • • •

Career Plan: Nursing Sign: Gemini Favourite Food: Chicken Wings Likes: Football & Volleyball Lives in: Sandhill, Belize District Fav. Quote: “Be the best you can be.”

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10 SPORTS

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

Kent Gabourel wins 2015 Lionman Triathlon Belize City, August 30, 2015 Kent “Bob” Gabourel won the 2015 Lionman Triathlon swimming 1,500m in 31 minutes and 24 seconds, riding 40 km (25 miles) in 1:03:00, and running a distance of 10km (6.25 miles) in 35 minutes.

In the team relay category, Belize Bank was 1st place, with swimmer Anthony Leslie, cyclist Alicia Thompson, and on the track Derick Conorquie.

Other Results: 2nd Ahmed Figueroa – 2:16:00.

3rd Eric Donis of San Pedro – 2:19:00 4th Kenroy “Smokes” Gladden - 2:23:29 5th Jody Williams - 2:24:25 6th/1st Masters - Dr. Ramon Figueroa - 2:31:40 7th Brandon Santos - 2:39:40 8th Jordan Santos – 1st Junior - 2:40:40 9th Tim Gushwa – 2nd Masters - 2:46:20 10th Kian Ancona – 2nd Junior - 2:50:27 11th Anthony Leslie – 3:05 12th Kerah Eiley – 1st Female - 3:05 13th Kenrick Duncan – 3:10 14th Ian Morrison – 3:55

Kent Gabourel wins Lionman

Kerah Eiley, 1st Female

Dr. Ramon Figueroa, 1st Masters

Team Belize wins 2015 O.W. Mundialito Orange Walk Town, August 30, 2015 Louisiana area’s Team Belize won the 2015 Orange Walk Town Mundialito championship final against Yo Creek’s ‘Argentina’ team 2-0 at the Louisiana Government School field on Sunday.

Jesse “Beast” August scored Belize’s 1st goal, and the Yo Creek defense deflected the ball into their goal for the 2-0 win.

San Estevan’s “Portugal’ team won the 3rd place consolation game: 2-1 against ‘Colombia’ from the La Inmaculada area of Orange Walk Town. Joan Bull scored for Portugal, but Rodolfo Argueta equalized for Colombia. The Colombia defenders goofed in deflecting the ball into their own goal to give Portugal the 2-1 win.

Team Belize wins 2015 Mundialito champs

Argentina team Joan Bull scored Portugal’s winning goal

Jesse August scored Belize’s winning goal

Belize Bank Bulldogs

Belize Bank Bulldogs win 2015 Firms Basketball Champs Belize City, August 29, 2015 The Belize Bank Bulldogs won Game 3 of 2015 Belize City Firms basketball finals: 71-57 against Central Bank to win the 2015 championship at Birds Isle on Saturday night.

In Game 2 on Friday night Central Bank had tied the series by a 70-67 win, led by Farron Louriano and Mark Swift with 17pts apiece, while Benedict Terry had 14pts, 9 rebounds, Jacob Leslie added 13pts, and Dave Apolonio – 5pts.

Bulldogs’ Roscoe Rhys hit 4 treys to score 18pts, playoff MVP Brian White added 17pts, 11 rebounds, and Rupert Brown, Marcel Orosco and Chris McGann scored 8pts apiece.

In Game 3 Saturday night, the Bulldogs mauled Central Bank 71-57 led by Tarrique Gabb with 23pts, playoff MVP Brian White added 22pts, 11 rebounds, Roscoe Rhys scored 11pts and Rupert Brown added 5pts.

Central Bank’s Farron Louriano had 28pts, Jacob Leslie added Continued on page 11

MVP Brian White scored 22pts

SPORTS 11

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES 2015 Leon O’Brien & Rosa Cruz win BDF half marathon Belize City, August 29, 2015 Belize City’s Leon O’Brien and Mexico’s Rosa Cruz won the annual Belize Defence Force half marathon from the Coast Guard headquarters at mile 4 on the George Price highway through Belize City on to the Philip Goldson Highway to Price Barracks, Ladyville.

Male Half Marathon 1st Leon O’Brien - 1:16:33.97 - $1,000 prize and a trophy 2nd Mexico’s Vladimir Gonzalez Arana - 1:26:8.79 - $800 prize 3rd San Pedro’s Kent “Bob” Gabourel - 1:27:02.93 - $600 prize 4th BDF Juan Bolum - 1:27:13 - $400 prize – 1st U-21 - $200 prize 5th Kenrick Duncan 1:32:33.61 - $200 prize Female half marathon 1st Rosa Cruz Urbina 1:32:42.97 - $1,000 prize and a trophy 2nd Jamie Usher - 1:59:40.47 - $800 prize and a medal

BDF’s Eden Gentle, 2nd in 10km

Kent Gabourel, 3rd & Leon O’Brien, 1st

Belize Bank Bulldogs win 2015 Firms Basketball Champs Continued from page 10 17pts, and Mark Swift 6pts.

Regular Season Individual Awards: DigiCell’s Raheem Staine Most Valuable Player DigiCell’s Lennox Cayetano - Most Rebounds (109) Central Bank’s Jacob Leslie - Most Steals (29) Belikin’s Kadeem Olivera Most Points (245) Central Health’s Steven Wade - Most Assists (40) Heritage Bank’s Karym Coleman - Most Blocks (16) Heritage Bank’s Winston Pratt - Best Efficiency (17.9) Bulldogs’ Brian White Playoffs Most Valuable Player

Central Bank won 2nd

Jamie Usher, 2nd in marathon

3rd Kerah Eiley - 2:02:55.03 - $600 prize 4th BDF Cpl. Cynthia Salazar 2:33:06.93 - $400 prize U-21 half marathon 1st BDF Juan Bolum - 1:27:13 - $200 prize 2nd Rodman Smith - 1:42:05:03 - $100 prize 3rd Ervin Hamilton - 1:45:12.57 - $50 prize Over 40–50 yrs 1st Eton Panton - 1:50:20.18 - $200 prize 2nd Dr. Victor Rosado - 1:59:12.47 $100 Over 50 yrs 1st Anthony “Ladies” Flores 1:52:27.28 - $100 prize 2nd Mark Godoy - 2:01:40.25 - $75 prize 3rd Gilbert Sebastian Nunez - 2:34:27 - $50 prize 10 K Run (Female) 1st BHS’ student Ashonti Carr 49:56:13 - $300 prize 2nd BDF Eden Gentle - 52:46.53 -

BHS’ Ashanti Carr 3rd in 10km

$200 prize 3rd BHS’ Ashantie Carr - 53:38.38 - $100 prize 4th Sherylee Burns - 53:59.38 5th Jereen Chun - 54:32.88 10 K Run (Male) 1st Ernesto Villafranco - 38:55.09 $300 prize 2nd SJCJC’s Albert Davis - 39:00.10 - $200 prize 3rd BDF Domingo Cal - 40:59.41 $100 prize 4th Mario Recinos - 41:13.56 5th Hance Card - 42:32.20 5 K Run (Female) 1st BDF Zoila Pais - $200 prize 2nd Aaliyah Carr - $150 prize 3rd Ajahney Carr - $100 prize 4th Teresita Grajalez - $75 prize 5th Michelle Requena - $50 prize 5 K Run (Male) 1st Rajeem Arzu - $300 prize 2nd SJCJC Rondre Lewis - $200 prize 3rd Jamal Webster - $100 prize 4th Joseph Carr - $75 prize 5th Anastacio Chiac - $50 prize

Belize Bank Bulldogs win back-to-back national women’s softball champs Most Steals, Jacob Leslie

Belize City, August 30, 2015 The Belize Bank Bulldogs won the national female softball championship by a 5-4 win over Belize Telemedia in the finals, when the national championship was held at the Rogers Stadium over the weekend.

Telemedia got 7 hits off Bulldogs’ MVP pitcher Kenreen Gillett, who struck out 2 batters and walked 7. Bulldogs’ Greta Davis scored 2 runs while Cindy Joseph, Ashley Lucas and Marsha Wills scored a run apiece. Telemedia’s Lydia Cacho and Norecia Fraser scored 2 runs apiece.

Individual Awards: Bulldogs’ pitcher Kenreen Gillett Most Valuable Player Kenreen Gillett - Most Wins (3) Bulldogs’ Greta Davis - Best Batting Average (0.470) Greta Davis - Most Runs Batted In (4) Bulldogs’ catcher Agnes Lucas - Most Stolen Bases (3) Telemedia pitcher Kenisha Sutherland - Most Strikeouts (11) Telemedia’s Norecia Fraser - Most Home Runs

12

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

!!!!!!WARNING WARNING WARNING!!!!!!

The following St. John’s Credit Union Members are urged to visit the Credit Union as soon as possible to make good on their delinquent account to avoid Court Action!!! Please contact our Credit Control Department immediately at tel # 227-7659/227-2575 Ext. 203, 204 or 214 to make suitable arrangements.

Member’s Name

Member’s last known address

ABRAHAM, LETECIA

# 6983 North Creek, Belize City, C/O Transparent BPO, #259 Coney Drive, Belize City

ADEBAYO, ABDUL

#115 Neal Pen Road, Belize City

AKINKUNMI, AKINTOMIDE

#45 Campus Avenue,Belize City

AUGUST , DORREN

#23 Boots Crescent, Belize City

AVILEZ, GEORGE

#7 Armadillo street, Bemopan city

BARRERA, CARLOS

#58 Damsel Fish Drive, Vista Del Mar, Ladyville Village C/O Tropic Air, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

BARROW, HUGH MELVIN

# 49 Amara Avenue, Belize City

Guarantor’s Name

Guarantor’s last known address

ROMERO, MARIO

Picinni Area, Belmopan City #18 St. Luke Street, San Martin Area, Belmopan city

LINK, LUEWIN

10 1/2 Miles Philip Goldson Highway

FISHER, LORNA

#5676 Gentle Avenue, Belize City

# 69 Plues Street, Belize City BARROW, STEVEN

# 10 New Site, Hattieville Village, Belize District

BELGROVE, KACHEFFEE

#6336 Berry Street, Belize City

BLEASE, VANESSA

# 53 Freetown Road, Belize City

BOWDEN, RANDIE

#115 George Street, Belize city

BROASTER, DERRICK

#3172 Supal Street, Belize City

BULLER, RAY

#15 Ben Bluff Avenue, Belmopan, Cayo District Water Reservoir Area, Belmoapn, Cayo District

CACHO, LYDIA

#94 Cuello Avenue, Lords Bank Village, Belize District

CALIZ, DARWIN

#6633 Police Street, Belize City

ZUNIGA, CURTIS

#4351 Boots Ville Road, Faber’s Road Ext, Belize City

#2124 Rivas Estate, Dangriga, Stann Creek District

NUNEZ, FRANCIS

#49 Flamboyant Street, Ladyville Village, Belize District #113 Albert Street, Belize City

CARBALLO, ERNESTO

#6 Marvin Street, Belize City

CARCAMO, JOSEPH

#19 Euphrates Ave, Belize City

GABB, ERICA

CARDENAS SR., ANGEL

#12 Tul Street, Maya Mopan , Belmopan, Cayo District

CARDENAS JR., ANGEL #12 Tul Street, Maya Mopan , Belmopan, Cayo District

CARRERO, KENT

#59 Cemetery Road, Belize City

CASSASOLA, LIZETTE

#8628 Jane Usher Boulevard, Belize City

CASTILLO, CURDEL & GABRIEL

3 1/2 Miles Western Highway, Belize City

CASTILLO, GIOVANNY

#17 C Banak Street, Rm #2, Belize City

CASTILLO, NOEL

#92 Neal Pen Road, Belize City

CASTILLO, DERRICK

# 25 Linda Vista Street, Belize City

COC, SINDULPHO COOPER, GARY

GENITTY, LERONE

#5635 Lizarraga Avenue, Belize City

# 94 Mangrove Street, Belize City

COC, HERMOGENES

#4 Matrons Roberts Street, Belize City

#3700 Unity Street, Belize City

TATE, A. H. JEFFREY

#3234 North Creek, Belize City

RAMCLAM, EZBERT

#4205 Fern Lane, Belize City

CAL, KARIMA

#1092 Petticoat Alley, Belize City

DIAZ, ISIAS

#24 St. Luke Street, San Martin, Belmopan

P.O Box 96, Belize City CRAWFORD, LEWELLYN

#7317 Arlington Drive, Belize City

CUTKELVIN, CHERRIEMAE

#7528 Fabers Road Ext, Belize City

DAPSON, JENENE

Teakettle Village, Cayo District

DAVIS, CLEVELAND

#76 Vernon Street, Belize City

DAVIS, GLENFORD

#38 Victoria Street, Belize City Sandhill Village, Belize District

DEL CID, JULIO

#75, 8 Miles George Price Highway, Western Paradise Village, Belize District

DIAS, ERNEST

#8528 Jane Usher Blvd, Belize City

DIAZ, JOEL

#28 St. Luke Street, San Martin, Belmopan

DOUGLAS, MELANIE

# 7445 Watermelon Street, Fabers Road Ext., Belize City BANNER, ALLISON Cruise Solutions Limited, Belize City

ELLINGTON, WINDER

#102 Jane Usher Blvd. Port Loyola, Belize City

# 36 Dean Street, Belize City

6 SEP

2015

13

THE BELIZE TIMES

ENRIQUEZ, ARILEE

#30 Albert Hoy Avenue, Belama Phase 1, Belize City

ENRIQUEZ, ELEANOR

#9 Dolphin Street, Belize City

ESCOBAR, ALEXANDER

#9 St. Paul Street, San Martin Area, Belmopan City

ESPEJO, EVI ABIEZER

#49 Euphrates Avenue, Belize City

ESPEJIO, IRVIN

#48 Euphrates Avenue, Belize City

San Antonio, Corozal District

KUMAR, DAVENDRA

#6117 Dolphin Drive, Belize City

THOMAS , PATRICK

Corner Dean & Plues Street, Belize City

ESTRADA , MARION

#32 Yarborough Road, Belize City

FERGUSON, SIMON

240 Cadena Mountain, Belmopan City

FERGUSON, IAN

#6 Pointseta Street, Belize City #10 Causarina Street, Belize City

FLOWERS, SHAUN MYOSHI

#5742 Lottie Waite Street, Belize City

FORTE, SHERLENE

Apartment #6 Amara Avenue, Belize City

FRANZUA, A, HEYMAN

# 26 6th Street, Kings Park, Belize City

GARCIA, NORMAN

#15 Ambergris Avenue, Belmopan City, Cayo District

GENTLE, ERROL

#85 Tapir Avenue, Belmopan

PANDY , ANNA

#165 Antelope Street Ext, Belize City,

GIBSON, DIANA

#3320 Central American Blvd. Belize City

WITTY, INDIRA

#6586 Doris Brooks Street, Belize City

GILLETT, WALTER

#8 Causarina Street, Belize City

BRAKEMAN , SHAVON

#3739 Pelican Street Extention, Belize City

GOMEZ, GUILLERMO

#35 Cran Street, Belize City

SAMBOLA, JOSE

Belama Phase 3, Belize City

GONZALEZ, HENRY

Cemetery Road, Salvapan Area, Belmopan City

MARTINEZ, CARLOS

Chen Street Maya Mopan, Belmopan City

GRAHAM, LINBERGH

#17 Mayflower Street, Belize City

AUGUST , CECELIA

#16 Kraal Road, Belize City

HUMES , STANLEY

UB Campus, Belmopan City

JORGENSON, MICHAEL

#8160 La Croix Blvd, Belize City

JORGENSEN, RHUNDER

#142 Neal Pen Road, Belize City

SMITH, ELEANOR MYRNA

#18 Landivar Street, Belize City

#78 Racoon Street Ext, Belze City

#4086 Starstoon Street, Belize City GRANT, DORLA

#331 New Belama Site, Belize City

GUY, TERESA

#4 Zericote Street, Belize City

HEMSLEY, LENNOX

350 Yucca Street, Belama Phase 2, Belize City

HERRERA, EDWIN

San Martin Area, Belmopan City

HERNANDEZ, ALEJANDRO

Mile 33 Old Northern Road, Santana Village, Belize District #711 Vista Del Mar, Ladyville Village, Belize District

HOARE, LORNAMAE

#6741 Racoon Street, Belize City

HUMES, SHERILOCK

#249 Maxboro, Sandhill Village, Belize District C/O Income Tax Department, Charles Bartlett Hyde Building, Belize City

HUMES, HENROY

#21 Belama Phase 4, Belize City c/o Port of Belize,Belize City

HUMES, GAYNOR

#12 Corozal Street, Belmopan City, Cayo District

HUMES, SHANA

#15 Currasow Street L/F, Belize City

JACOBS, RHONDEEN

#10 Welch Street, Belize City

JONES A., ENRIQUE

#95 Barrack Road, Belize City

JORGENSEN, WAYNE

#3048 Max Boro, Sandhill Village, Belize District

LALWANI, HARISH

#18 Dolphin Street, Belize City c/o Belize Defense Force (BDF)

LESLIE, KEVIN

314 Corozal Street, Belmopan City #7817 Corozal Street, Belmopan City

LEWIS, KIMBERLY

#9189 Holy Emmanuel Street,Belize City

LEWIS, GENAE

#18 Landivar Street, Belize City M & M’s Boutique, Belize City

MARTINEZ, MERLENE

#326 Mahogany Heights, Belize City

MCKENZIE, JOSEPHINE

#2916 Waight Street, Belize City

MEIGHAN JR., JOSEPH

#6638 Mahogany Street, Belize City

MEIGHAN, FRANCINE

#47 Central American Blvd., Belize City

METZKEN, WELLINGTON MOODY, TELFORD

C/O Queen Square Anglican Primary School, Belize City BUTLER, KARLA

#58 Nurse Findley Crescent, Belize City

3 Cairo Street, Belize City

GOFF, LIONICA

#16 St. Joseph Street, Belize City

#2 Alexander Street, Belize City

GLADDEN, SOPHIA

#34 Far West Street, Belize City

LUNA, JACINTO

#106 Neal Pen Road, Belize City

REID , RICHARD

#9 Baboon Avenue, Belmopan City, Cayo District

GUITEREZ, JUANTO

#19 Temash Street, Belmopan City, Cayo District

College Road, Corozal Town #7737 Madam Liz Crescent, Belize City MOSES, WAYNE

#7397 Fabers Road Extension, Belize City

MYERS, MICHELLE

#44 Dolphin Street, Belize City

ORTEGA, DENNIS

#7362 Mahogany Street, Belize City

PALACIO, ALFRED

Bullett Tree Falls, San Ignacio Town

14 PALACIO, JOVITA

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

#8 Tiger Avenue, Belmopan City #34 Sinsonte Avenue, Belmopan City Seine Bight Village, Stann Creek District C/O Nautical Inn, Seine Bight Village, Stann Creek District

PANDY, BRENDA

#916 Juniper Street, Belize City

PARHAM, HERBERT

#4 Supal Street, Belize City

KUYLEN, ADAM

#200 Stuart Alley, Belize City

SANCHEZ, DENNIS

#64 Lakeview Street, Belize City

#9 Dunn Street, Belize City PARKS, GEORGE

#30 Pickstock Street, Belize City #3253 Courtney Crescent, Belize City

PEREZ, ELAINE

#14 Toledo Street, Belmopan, Cayo District Gales Point Manatee, Stann Creek District

PRATT, WAYNE

#10 Welch Street, Belize City

REQUENA, DARRELL

Mile 15 Hattieville Village, Belize District

REYES, MAJDI

#9 Guacamallo Street Las Flores, Belmopan City, Cayo District

FERGUSON SR., GLENROY

#2926 Cor. Nurse Ventura & Yamp Street 2nd Site, Dangriga

REYNOLDS, ANDREW

Burrell Boom Village, Belize District

WILTSHIRE , ANGELITA

#29 Cran Street, Belize City

RHABURN A., JORDY

#8343 Electric Avenue, St. Martins De Porres, Belize City

FRANZUA, FERNANDO Mile 17 George Price Highway, Hattieville Village, Belize District

#28 Santa Barbara Street, Belize City Teakettle Village, Cayo District RHABURN, RAYNARD

#12 Pelican Street, Belize City

RHABURN, MICHELLE

#1157 Coney Drive, Belize City

ROBINSON, ELVIS

#16 Barbados Street, Belmopan, Cayo District

ROCHES, KAYEEM

#8449 Cannondale & Lawrence Avenue, Belize City

ROCHES, RICARDO

#142 East Collet Canal, Belize City

ROGERS, CAROL

#186 Neal Pen Road, Belize City

ROSALES, FRANCISCO

#11 Cemetery Lane, Belize City

SMITH, JARED

#23 Guzman Crescent, Belize City

ROWLAND, BERNADETTE

#14 Neal Penn Road, Belize City

ARNOLD, EGLAH

#100 New Site Area, Hattieville Village, Belize District

SABAL, TESHA

#4080 Central American Blvd., Belize City

SEWELL, ARTHUR

#1450 Coney Drive, Belize City

SEAWELL, WINSTON

#854 Vista Del Mar, Ladyville Village, Belize District

SERRANO, GUILLERMINA

Guinea Grass, Orange Walk District

SERRANO, SENEIDA

Guinea Grass, Orange Walk District

STAINE, MARK

#4321 Faber’s Road, Belize City

SWAZO, JAMES

#1 Gill Street, Belize City

CASTILLO, PETER

#22 Bagdad Street, Belize City

TALBERT, HERMAN

Burrell Boom Village, Belize District

TERRY, KEISHA

#92 East Windmill Area, Hattieville Village, Belize District

MORGAN, TARA NATASHA

#12 Mosul Street, Belize City

THOMAS, WINDELL

Roaring Creek Village, Cayo District

THOMPSON, KAREN

#8 Antelope Street, Belize City

LANZA, DANIEL

#4070 Pelican Street Extention, Belize City

MARIANO, RUBEN

#1288 Coney Drive, Belize City

WADE, SHARLETTE

5969 Campus Avenue, Belize City

CASTILLO, JULIET

#5976 Campus Avenue, Belize City

GILL, GREGORY

#6260 Buttonwood Bay, Belize City

WILLOUGHBY, PHILIP #42 East Collet Canal, Belize City

#7541 Fabers Road Extention, Belize City TZALAM, GAUDY

#16 Santa Rita Heights, Corozal Town

TZOT, CARLOS

#98 George Street, Belize City

VASQUEZ, GERMAINE

#3112 Kraal Road, Belize City

VASQUEZ E., SOLANGEL

#7463 Rio Grande Crescent, Fabers Road Ext, Belize City #274 Los Lagos, Ladyville Village, Belize District

VASQUEZ, DORA

Las Flores, Belmopan

VERGO, ASHTON

#7714 N Paulina Street, Chicago Illinois 60626 USA

WADE, NERI

#7299 Mckenzie Lane, Belize City

WADE, SHARON

#282 Max Boro, Sandhill, Belize

WEBSTER & VANESSA, AUSTIN & #8466 Gordon Street, Belize City ESMOND WILLIAMS, VANESSA

#97 Racecourse Street, Belize City

WILLIAMS, CHYLA

#2 Oleander Street, Belize City

WILLIAMS, COLLIN

#7595 Rio Bravo Crescent, Belize City

WHITE, FREDRICK

#15 King & Rootsville, Lake Independence Belize City

YOUNG, ARTIE

#7467 Woodpecker Street, Belize City

ZELAYA, NATALIE

#4091 Sarstoon Street, Belize City

ZUNIGA, DORIAN & ELEANOR

#100 West Street, Punta Gorda Town

DATED THIS 2nd day of SEPTEMBER, 2015

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

Will LICU weather the storm?

Orange Walk Town, August 28, 2015 Amidst loud howls of protest, the Board of Directors of La Inmaculada Credit Union (LICU) hurriedly closed the Special General Meeting which they had reluctantly called on Saturday, August 22, 2015.

At the abrupt call for an adjournment by a member, the Board members led

by President Ena Martinez cleared the towering podium and stage. They scurried away; barely giving media houses

ment that she had been advised that it was “prudent, wise and in the best interest of the institution” to limit her revelations, seemed very eager to discuss the reasons behind the Board’s decision to terminate Gomez.

Martinez claimed that complaints of “irregularities” had intensified so much that the Board could no longer deal with them “in isolation” but were forced to take measures including the launching of an internal investigation and placing

dit report, declaration on the payment of dividends and the dismissal of Yolanda Gomez. But the almost two hours spent was mostly focused on further tarnishing the image of the former General Manager.

According to the Board, the AGM will be held only after the special investigation is completed and the audit report and the payment of dividends will be known then.

Two board members then took turns reading out (in English and Spanish) the long statement which they had already publicised days earlier. This was in response to the issue of Gomez’s termination.

The Board also found it fit to dis-

LICU members/owners expressed grave concerns at the Special General Meeting

a chance to conduct proper interviews and once more denied an opportunity for transparency.

They each appeared nervous and afraid that the longer they stayed the more they would be harassed - by the media, by the over 1,000 members/owners of LICU who were in attendance or by a crowd of angry members/owners who were visibly bitter that they had not gotten “answers” at the meeting.

How did LICU, which is recognised as one of the most successful financial institutions in northern Belize, get to this point? With assets of $3.3 million, LICU stands shoulder to shoulder with any of the local banks. But of late, since April this year to be precise, the institution has been besieged by scandal and allegations of financial wrongdoing.

Saturday’s meeting was called by the Board, only after pressure was applied by 1,100 members/owners who signed a petition demanding that a meeting be held the Board must provide answers.

In April, the members were stunned at the “news” that well-known General Manager Yolanda Gomez had been suspended. This gave rise to suspicions of possible wrongdoing, but the scale of how rotten the situation had become could not be anticipated. After weeks of silence by the Board, in July they “spoke” when they took the drastic decision to terminate Gomez. The actions confirmed that something very serious was afoot.

Gomez had been at the helm of LICU for over 20 years. Under her stewardship, the institution developed into a financial fortress, growing in membership and savings, and successfully partnering with international agencies such as the European Union to attract capital that have yielded returns.

Three days before Saturday’s Special General Meeting, LICU’s Board went on the offensive in a most unusual fashion.

They released a 12-minute pre-recorded statement for television in which the President aired out the institution’s “dirty laundry” publicly.

Martinez, who noted in the state-

the General Manager on administrative leave, followed by the hiring of private accountant, Cedric Flowers, to carry out a special investigation and the firing of the General Manager.

Martinez also pointed out that the Central Bank, which regulates all credit unions, had carried out and completed an audit of the institution.

As for the “special investigation” which commenced on June 18th, the Board had no definitive answers. In fact, they indicated that they need more time because of the “complexity of the investigation”.

“What began as scattered cases of irregularities, quickly turned into a pervasive demonstration of irregularities and non-compliance to banking law,” Martinez charged in her statement.

She claimed that the Board, as a result of their internal investigations and the preliminary findings of the special investigation, saw it fit to terminate the

were admitting failure in their overall supervision and management of the affairs of LICU. Other members could barely get started with their questions or comments when they were impolitely interrupted by the Board, who instructed that the microphone be muted, so the general membership could not continue to hear from the members speaking.

Saturday’s LICU Special General Meeting had taken on the likeness of the unruly House of Representatives under the dictatorial Barrow Government, and it wasn’t so surprising since the only-members meeting had the presence of rabid UDP Chairman and non-member Alberto August. It appears the Board

President of the Board, Ena Martinez, told members/owners that her Board cannot be held responsible because they “don’t work there”

close, with slight more detail, the allegations against the former general manager. They claimed that she was guilty of misdirection, misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, mismanagement, making unauthorised loan write-offs and other “serious and deliberate breaches” of the credit union’s policy.

After the Board gutted out the former General Manager, who was present at the meeting, the concerns about the state of LICU’s finances grew and members made it known during the question and answer session that followed.

One member asked whether other persons in the management and staff could have been involved in the wrongdoing, and if so, how was it that they had not been dealt with by the Board.

The response was that anyone implicated in wrongdoing will be dealt with upon the completion of the investigations.

Another member asked how was it

Former General Manager Yolanda Gomez says she will defend her innonence in Court

General Manager.

“The Board unanimously decided that there was enough evidence and reason to warrant the immediate termination of Mrs. Yolanda Gomez as the General Manager,” she said ahead of the Special General Meeting.

At Saturday’s meeting, the Board was expected to address four areas: the delay in this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), an updated on the au-

15

possible for the Board not to have detected any wrongdoing since the period which is being investigated is 2012-2015.

The Board’s response was that they do not work at the institution and do not micromanage; therefore, they were not aware of the breaches in policy until complaints were made to them.

This answer was unsatisfactory to several members, who began calling on Board members to resign since they

was not so strict with rules on that day.

Yolanda Gomez responds The former General Manager opted to remain silent throughout the proceedings of the Special General Meeting, listening intently as the Board that she had worked very closely with, announced the very serious allegations against her.

It was only after the call for an adjournment was made that she stood up to speak, followed by loud and cheerful applause from some members, but by then the microphones were muted, the Board had nearly ran off the main stage and the majority of the members were more concerned about the lunch menu.

Gomez’s only response came via a press release dated Thursday August 20th, in direct reply to the Board’s television statement.

In that release, Gomez denied the allegations describing them as “repugnant”, “disingenuous” and a “witch hunt aimed at discrediting me and my reputation”.

Gomez contends that the Board did not even afford her the basic right of natural justice.

She added that the assault on her is “personal” and intended to “removing me from the helm” of LICU. On that last charge the Board has succeeded, but only for now it seems.

Gomez has indicated that she will take the Board to Court, giving rise to what will undoubtedly be a complex, protracted and surely divisive and expensive process for the Credit Union.

Members have already begun to question the stability of LICU. For many the allegations against the former General Manager are incredulous since she has presided over its most successful years, prosperous both for the institution and the pockets of the membership. Many also question the actions of the Board, and they are not consoled by the President’s continuous public displays of grave misunderstanding of the fiduciary responsibility they owe to the credit union’s members/owners.

16

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

The Saviors of Sarstoon

2015 VACANCY NOTICE

UNICEF is seeking a qualified individual with legal status to work in Belize for the position of Office Assistant/ Driver, GS-3 Level (Classified) in the Belize Country Office.

Within the delegated authority and under the given organizational set-up, the incumbent may be assigned the primary, shared, or contributory accountabilities for all or part of the major duties.

Under the supervision of the Operations Assistant: Performs a series of administrative and driving tasks to provide general office support.

Purpose for the job:

By Gilroy Usher, Sr. From proud Rio Hondo to old Sarstoon. Those are the poetic words used by Samuel Haynes in our National Anthem to define our country, Belize, from north to South.

Events over the past six years, however, have shown that if mother England, United States, Guatemala, and the UDP had their own way we would own the southernmost part of the country, the Sarstoon area, on paper only. Today we know of the southern markers of Belize and the untold wealth in the deep south of our country because a group a brave and patriotic Belizeans took the necessary steps to get to know that area of our land.

There is great displeasure with this Government over what is happening in the Sarstoon area of the Jewel. By its hands off policy in the deep south of the country the Barrow administration has quietly given our covetous neighbor a large portion of that area of the Jewel. While the Government has nearly prohibited Belizeans from going to the Sarstoon area, Guatemalans exercise full use and enjoyment.

We know that Guatemalans are stealing our resources with illegal fishing in our waters and the illegal cutting of milpas and precious logs among other things from our land.

Worst of all, we now know that necessary steps must be taken to demand an end to Guatemala military’s frequent harassment of our BDF soldiers, coast guard and civilians, who visit the deep south of our country.

Daily, scores of Guatemalans unlawfully enter our territory in the south to conduct all sorts of activities. On the other hand, our brothers and sisters who visit this particular area of our land have to get

permission from the Guatemalans.

That aggression by Guatemala against Belizeans in our own territory was recently displayed before the local and foreign press, when the Guatemalan military vessels tried to block a number of Belizean boats from visiting the Sarstoon Island. On the orders of the government, the Belize Defense Force and the Coast Guard were nowhere in sight; they were miles away from the unwarranted intimidation of Belizeans by Guatemalan soldiers.

The following day, Prime Minister Barrow boasted that his government is prepared to defend all 8867 sq. miles of our country to the death. Total hot air. It is because of this government’s cowardly action, and its secret accommodation agreement with Guatemala that we refuse to build a necessary forward operating base for the Coast Guard on Sarstoon Island because the Guatemalan government does not allow it.

In 1962 Phillip Goldson stood for Belize when he broke an oath of secrecy and revealed to the nation that in negotiations abroad Britain and the United States were preparing to use the Thirteen Proposals to appease Guatemala. Today the sons and daughters of the soil, who have gone into their own pockets and solicited funds from the community to meet the cost of the brave journey to the Sarstoon area of the country, are called the Belize Territorial Volunteers.

By their actions they have proven that in 2015 they are the saviors of the Sarstoon and, like Goldson, they have sounded the alarm bells. They have spoken to us straight. Like Goldson they have told us the naked truth.

With this government we are losing the Sarstoon to Guatemala. We must put our country first to safeguard the Sarstoon for future generations of Belizeans.

1. Provides timely and effective user support in the Reception Area.

2. Provides timely and effective administrative support.

3. Timely and effective user support is provided on an on-going basis, by assisting operating office equipment as required.

4. Timely and effective support is provided on an on-going basis, by driving office vehicles for the transport of authorized personnel and delivery and collection of mail, documents and other items.

5. Assignments of additional duties and responsibilities are effectively performed.

Summary of key functions/accountabilities: 1. Provides timely and effective user support in the Reception Area.

•

Receives and assists visitors to office.

•

Answers telephone, directs calls and responds to routine inquiries.

•

Makes logistical arrangements for internal and external meetings, workshops and special events.

2. Provides timely and effective administrative support.

• • • •

Dispatches outgoing communication, including pouches and faxes. Logs and routes all incoming correspondence and documents.

Creates and maintains office manuals, administrative and general files and records. Files all correspondences, documents and other materials.

Maintain and upkeep the resource library.

Supports Focal Point in Emergency related activities and response.

3. Timely and effective user support is provided on an on-going basis, by assisting operating office equipment as required.

•

Operates photocopying/duplicating machines, projector, PA system, scanner and document binder.

•

Supports production and distribution of reports; photocopying collating, etc.

•

Performs simple office equipment maintenance and makes service/repair request for equipment as needed.

4. Timely and effective support is provided on an on-going basis, by driving office vehicles for the transport of authorized personnel and delivery and collection of mail, documents and other items.

• Drives office vehicles for the transport of Head of Office, authorized personnel and delivery and collection of mails, documents and other items. Assists with immigration and customs clearances at the International Airport of UNICEF personnel and other officials.

• Responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the assigned vehicle; checks oil, water, battery, brakes, tires, etc., performs minor repairs and arranges for other repairs.

Ensures that the vehicle is kept clean.

• Logs official trips, daily mileage, gas consumption, oil changes, greasing, etc.

• Ensures that the steps required by rules and regulations are taken, in case of involvement in an accident.

5. Assignments of additional duties and responsibilities are performed effectively.

•

Performs any additional assignments as requested by the supervisor.

Qualifications and Work Experience:

• Completion of secondary school.

• • •

Min. of 5 years driving experience. Min. of 2 years administrative/clerical experience.

Fluency in English (reading, writing and spoken), knowledge of Spanish would be an asset.

Computer literate. Competent in Microsoft Office Suite of products (Word, Excel and Office 365).

Competencies: i) Core Values (Required) Commitment Diversity and Inclusion Integrity ii) Core Competencies (Required) Communication [I] Working with People [I] Drive for Results [I] iii) Functional Competencies (Required) Analyzing [I] Learning and Researching [I] Planning and Organizing [I] Following instructions and Procedures [I] Other Skills and Attributes: Ability to work in an international, multicultural & team-based working environment.

Closing date of submitting applications is 11th September, 2015. Late applications will not be considered and regret letter will only be sent to short-listed candidates.

Please visit our website http://www.unicef.org/videoaudio/PDFs/P11.doc to access the Personal History (P11) Form to be sent by e-mail with a detailed resume and cover letter outlining your competencies and reasons for applying to belize@unicef.org, attention: Operations Assistant; subject - Vacancy Office Assistant/Driver; GS-3.

UNICEF OPERATES IN A SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT & IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER & AN HIV/AIDS RESPECTING WORKPLACE.

6 SEP

2015

THE BELIZE TIMES

gesting that Belize’s two political parties are the same. While there are structural similarities, whereas they must both govern under the same Westminster system of governance that we have adopted, there are fundamental differences in the philosophy of both parties.

I have over the course of time delved into these differences, and will continue to do so, but any attables have turned. tempt to do so at this time would Sometime in 1991 Phillip Golddistract from the main purpose of son and a few young upstarts broke this essay. away from the United Democratic Then there is the Diaspora!

Party following “sea access cesThere are also a few in that group sions” to Guatemala. The PUP saw who think themselves capable of an opportunity and decided to call leading Belize. They point to Sec. early elections. As soon as the elec58 of the Constitution as being distions were announced however, criminatory because, although they the two groups quickly forged an are, “by virtue of their own act, alliance based on promises made under any acknowledgment or alto Goldson by the big wigs in the legiance, obedience or adherence UDP. Key among those promises to a foreign power or state”, they was a pledge to rescind the Mariconsider themselves still Belizeans time Areas Act. The UDP won by and more Belizean than some who a slim margin but Goldson turned are allowed to run for Parliament out to be the only one from NABR based on nationalization. I believe who got elected. Standing alone, he that this section of the Constitucould not wield enough influence to tion should be amended, but not force Barrow and Esquivel to keep to allow dual citizens to run, but to their promises and he died brokendisqualify those like Ralph Huang hearted and dejected; not to menor Denny Grijalva in particular, who was in fact born in Guatemala of all places. Elvin Penner, who disgraced Belizeans need a change, deserve a change and disrespected our country, has also been and are clamoring for a change. We need long rumored to be a Casmart people, honest people and nadian citizen. All three above mentioned by the brave people to represent us if we are way, have or are running to come out of this predicament unon a UDP ticket.

There is much that scathed. those in Diaspora and those who choose not to partake in party politics at home George Price when we need him? tion covered in a cloud of infamy. can do to help fix and repair our broThere is also a scattered bunch Anybody remember the passport ken system. Their quest for power of discontented citizens who scandal of those days? however, obstructs their professed would themselves become leadConsidering the events of the goal and instead, murky the waters ers. Instead of their clamor for day, one would have to concede that of transparency and gives cover to power and control, these rebels, the tables have turned in more ways corruption. We need to set aside for whatever their cause would do than one. The PUP is this time in the personal ambitions, honestly debetter to organize themselves into role of underdogs while the UDP’s fine our objectives and move forsome type of watchdog group to are the ones seemingly appeasing ward in a true spirit of patriotism. hold those in office in check. They Guatemala. In a little while, we shall Long live Belize! have coined a title “PUDP” sugsee where the mood of the people lies. Belizeans will overlook corruption, they will overlook broken promises, they will allow most all things to “blow over like a little breeze” but when it comes to the Guatemalan issue, hackles raise quickly. This government has made some very unpopular moves and Sedi Elrington in particular, seems to put his foot in his mouth at every opportunity. He seems just too cozy with his Guatemalan counterpart and together, they have been trying to convince us that the ICJ is the way to go. Even if we could trust the ICJ, Belizeans do not trust that Guatemala would abide by any ruling there from. Additionally, while it is bad enough that Belizeans do not trust Guatemala, lately it has gotten to the point where we do not trust our own government. A sad state of affairs indeed!

Belizeans need a change, de-

Reid Are we ready for the Big Dance?

By G. Michael Reid Anyway, no drug, not even alcohol, causes the fundamental ills of society. If we’re looking for the source of our troubles, we shouldn’t test people for drugs, we should test them for stupidity, ignorance, greed and love of power. ~ P. J. O’Rourke There are a lot of people who are doing wonderful things, quietly, with no motive of greed, or hostility toward other people, or delusions of superiority. ~ Charles Kuralt See them fighting for power; but they know not the hour ~ Bob Marley Belizeans across the nation are anxiously anticipating the announcement of the date for our next general elections. The decision, of course, lies solely with one man and one man only. Yet, never has one man been so intoxicated or reveled so much in power and authority, than this current prime minister of Belize.

Should the elections be called early, it would be the third time since Independence that such a snap election would have occurred. The last time was in 2012 when elections were called a year early and before that in 1993 when elections were called a full 15 months before they were constitutionally due.

Conventional wisdom suggests that snap elections favor the incumbent, since the party in power has the luxury of calling it at their convenience or at such time as they believe to be advantageous. There are times however, when such a decision to call an early election has backfired, as was the case in 1993.

In that instance, it was the UDP who was in disarray and the PUP who was riding on the high of a recent municipal victory; oh how the

17

serve a change and are clamoring for a change. We need smart people, honest people and brave people to represent us if we are to come out of this predicament unscathed.

Right Honorable George Price stated our position a long time ago; not a blade of grass, not one centimeter shall we surrender. Whether blue, red, independent or indifferent, that seems to be the common sentiment.

The option for Belize is a united People’s United Party. Unfortunately, there are those more concerned with the love of power than with the love of country. With “blue concas” egos and mentality, they seem prepared to destroy this party if they are not allowed to be in charge and control. Disregarding the interest and concerns of the rank and file, general membership and indeed the wider interest of Belizeans at large, these modern day Macbeths will apparently stop at nothing to achieve their ultimate goal; that being power and control. Would that they could see, that such unbridled ambitions, as revealed in William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, leads to naught but destruction and despair. Where is

18

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

Belmopan Mayor threatens to leave 30 families homeless Continued from page 4 their portion of the land they raise farm animals. Self-sufficiency is the way for his family.

Chub said that what the local authorities are threatening to do to his family is inhumane.

“This is unjust. The police were here along with people from the city council telling us we must leave or they will destroy our homes. I fear my family’s home will be next and we will be homeless,” he said.

Mayor Belisle has been on defencemode on the news, accusing the people of squatting on the land. Belisle also claims that sufficient notice was provided by way of letters to the residents that they cannot continue to occupy the land.

Belisle also claims that there is a nearby creek which floods when it rains and the Council is very concerned about the safety of the residents.

But both Cal and Chub say the Mayor is being untruthful. They told the BELIZE TIMES they haven’t received any letters or any other form of notice from the Council. They also disputed that the creek poses any danger to their homes.

They said that over the years they have lived in the area they have not experienced any life-threatening floods.

They question the real reason that the Council is insisting that they leave, and pointed to unconfirmed reports that the land has been promised to UDP-connected special interests.

Belisle has not dared to show up in the area recently. Of course, when he was begging the residents to vote for him a few months ago for the Belmopan City Council elections he couldn’t help himself. Another resident, Eugenio Cal, told Channel 5 news that Mayor Belisle had promised to survey the land for them in exchange for their votes.

“Mister Belisle again came here and he said vote for me and I will survey this place for you. I vote for the man, we vote for the man, but look here. They broke down this house; this house is expensive and then they told me….the city council tell me that I have to move that house. If yon oh move it, the backhoe wah come and bruk it for you,” Cal pointed out.

The Mayor, as expected, has denied the allegations.

The residents can’t even turn to their Belmopan Area Representative John Saldivar for support since he and Mayor Belisle practically sleep and wake up in the same bed, politically speaking.

UPDATE:

This week those affected by the Belmopan City Council’s rash actions met with attorney Michel Chebat, with the assistance of PUP Belmopan Standard Bearer Senator Patrick Andrews. Mr. Chebat will now provide strong legal representation to the people of Maya Mopan. There is hope!

2015 For Sale

By Order of the

Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage dated the 21st June, 2010, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 19 of 2010 at Folios 267 to 294, and by a Supplemental Deed of Mortgage dated the 18th day of September, 2012, made between CYNTHIA SANTOS (also known as CYNTHIA YORKE) of Hill View Area, Santa Elena, Cayo District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Vol. 22 of 2012 at Folios 213 – 222, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the schedules hereto.

All offers to purchase the said properties must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. THE FIRST SCHEDULE ALL THOSE pieces or parcels of land being Lot No. 6 comprising of 1003.042 S.M.; Lot No. 7 comprising of 1006.585 S.M.; and Lot No. 8 comprising of 1003.042 S.M.; all situate South of the Stann Creek Valley Road near Mile 10, Hoffman Estate Area, Stann Creek District, bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 821 of 2003 dated 14th July, 2003 attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 821 of 2003 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

THE SECOND SCHEDULE ALL THOSE pieces or parcels of land being Lot No. 9 comprising of 1002.568 S.M.; and Lot No. 10 comprising of 998.387 S.M., all situate South of the Stann Creek Valley Road near Mile 10, Hoffman Estate Area, Stann Creek District, bounded and described as shown

by Plan No. 821 of 2003 attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 821 of 2003 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 20th day of August, 2015.

MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

For Sale

By Order of the Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 22nd day of July, 2009 between WILFRED MUTRIE and ANNA M. RAMIREZ both of Hopeville Area, Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 18 of 2009 at Folios 1199 – 1230, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE

Attorney Michel Chebat and Maya Mopan residents discussing legal issues

ALL THAT LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN ALL THAT lot piece or parcel of land being Lot. No. 117 situate in the Hopeville Area, Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District, Belize and bounded as follows:- On the North for 30.482 metres by Lot. No. 114; On the South for 30.482 metres by a portion of Lot No. 118; On the East for 19.408 metres by a street and on the West for 19.408 metres by Lot No. 116 containing 591.595 square metres of land as shown on Plan No. 2064 at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 20th day of August, 2015.

MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for

Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

6 SEP

19

THE BELIZE TIMES

2015

Francis Defends

Sarstoon…Dean Rages!

BY ORDER OF MORTGAGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under and by virtue of a Deed of Mortgage registered at the Land Titles Unit between LACHMAN SADARANGANI of the first part, AMIT LACHMAN SADARANGANI of the second part and HRCU of the other part.

HRCU will at the expiration of three months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule below.

Hon. Francis Fonseca

Dean Barrow

Belize City, September 2, 2015 It was most interesting to see Prime Minister Dean Barrow’s reaction and response to issues and concerns raised by Opposition Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca at the closure of Wednesday’s House Sitting. It was vintage Dean O. Hon. Francis Fonseca stood up to pay tribute to the patriots who journeyed to Sarstoon area and called on the Government to take up their responsibility to protect Belizeans when they travel to the Sarstoon area and defend Belizean territory.

If the Barrow Government is not prepared to do this, challenged Hon. Francis, then they are useless.

One would think that the Prime Minister would support this. We’re in September – the month when patriotism climaxes.

But instead, Dean threw a fit. Went off. Called PUP reps all sorts of names, including pig. He sounded like a child.

A spoilt brat. Not prime ministerial. But most of all, he came off Unpatriotic.

Clearly Sarstoon Island is NOT a priority to his administration. In fact, they have allowed Guatemalan military to take over the island basically. The Prime Minister himself has told the coast guard to stay away, and he tried to tell the Belizean Territorial Volunteers the same thing.

Hon. Francis is on the right track.

He can’t take his eyes off Sarstoon. The PUP philosophy when it comes to this false Guatemalan claim is “not a blade a grass!” Obviously for the UDP and Dean Barrow, the same thing cannot be said. For them, Sarstoon Island could be just the start.

Is Lands Ministry spiting Kremandala?

Belize City, August 31, 2015 UDP Area Representative Mark King has publicly stated that he has waged war against the Kremandala empire, claiming that his objective is to “get rid of” PUP Lake Independence Standard Bearer Cordel Hyde, Krem Radio manager Mose Hyde and their father, Amandala Publisher Evan X Hyde.

King, it appears, is not the only UDP personality taking on the Hydes. It appears UDP Deputy Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega has issues of his own.

On Monday of this week, Mose Hyde revealed that Vega’s Ministry of Lands, described by the Prime Minister as a hotbed of corruption, has frustrated their efforts to give land to the poor.

Hyde said that the Lands Ministry halted a programme launched by Krem in which lots have been given out to over twenty first-time landowners because the land site does not include space for a park.

Hyde berated the Ministry of Lands for blocking the project for rules which they themselves don’t follow at all.

He said the Ministry of Lands is known to treat rules “like cartoons”.

As a result of the Ministry of Lands’ actions, Krem may have to either cut down on the number of land recipients or reduce the size of land issued to make space for a park.

Several months ago, the UDP tried to embarrass the Kremandala organisation by publishing confidential tax information related to their companies in the Guardian newspaper.

The article, published to discredit Krem radio and Amandala newspaper and their personnel, claimed that the non-payment of General Sales Tax was just like stealing money from the Government. The allegation was repeated numerous times on live radio by the co-hosts of Wus Ting da Morning, Nasty Joe and Foul-mouth Fonso.

ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT FREEHOLD piece or parcel of land situate at Cockney Range, Stann Creek District, Belize comprising 1.407 Acres of land, and being more particularly delineated and described as shown on Plan No. 1325 of 2007, attached to MINISTER’S FIAT GRANT No. 1325 of 2007 dated the 24th day of January 2008, lodged at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys, City of Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon the freehold property of AMIT LACHMAN SADARANGANI DATED this 26th day of August 2015 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738

20

Back to School Project in Collet Completed!

Belize City, September 1, 2015 Thanks to fundraising efforts by the hard working and dedicated members of the PUP Collet Committee and through the generosity of several Friends of Collet, including United Women’s Group President, Mrs. Yolanda Schakron, PUP Collet Standard Bearer, Yasmin Shoman, assisted 161 children with backpacks and school supplies.

GUNMEN EXECUTE

RUSSELL HYDE & GIRLFRIEND, MARCY HUMES City of Belmopan, August 31, 2015 45 year old Russell Hyde was well known to many in the Cayo District, in particular in the communities nearest to the city of Belmopan. He was known for many things, among them his notorious past and much recently, that his family and close friends lived in fear after his wife was shot dead and close associates began turning up dead, dismembered.

But the high-stakes drama following Hyde’s life will now become a tale of mystery and tragedy to share.

On Friday, August 28th, Hyde and two others, including his girlfriend 28 year old Marcy Humes, were ambushed and killed mercilessly by armed gunmen as they reached his home in Camalote Village.

Reports are that around 9:30 on Friday night, the trio were walking towards their home when they noticed flashlights approaching them.

They sensed danger and tried to run away and escape, but Hyde and Humes were not successful. They were shot multiple times and left on the ground to die.

Humes was found by the Police along a feeder road that leads to Hyde’s home. She was still alive despite having been shot in the chest and leg. She was rushed into emergency room, but died under surgery less than an hour later.

Hyde was found about 100 yards from Humes. He was dead, with four gunshot wounds; twice on his back, once to his neck and once to his jaw.

Like the murders the preceded Friday night’s execution; that of Hyde’s wife, Rosalie Galvez, or associate Edilberto Madrid, or his cousin Steven Hyde; there is a cloud of mystery hanging over.

Police do not have any clues about who would be responsible for the high-profile murders. The third person who was along with Hyde and Humes on Friday night has disappeared.

6 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

The PUP recognised the financial burden that thousands of families, many on the South Side of Belize City, are faced with during these trying economic times and remain committed to Social Justice, focusing on three pillars of Reform: Governance, Economic and Education and Health.

The PUP is excited to announce that they will provide FREE education to all Belizeans from Pre-School

to Sixth Form under the next PUP government led by our next Prime Minister, Hon. Francis Fonseca.

Education should never be a privilege. It MUST always be a right!

The consultation and work in the Collet Constituency continues. Elections are near! And better WILL come with the PUP.

2015

PUP Collet standard bearer Yasmin Shoman distribute school supplies to needy families

6 SEP

2015 LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that ZHOU RONG LI is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Jian Ye Shop”, situated at 3 2nd Street, King’s Park Area, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that WEN YAN XIAO is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Heng Wen Shop”, situated at 39 King Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that GEN WAN LIU is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “New Road Supermarket”, situated at #84 New Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that JIAN WEN WU is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “J&Y Shop”, situated at 9073 La Croix Boulevard, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that YOU QIANG CHEN is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “New Hope”, situated at 35 Baymen Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that MEI LING HUANG is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Zhong Wang Shop”, situated at 15 Hopkins Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that HUI QUN CHEN is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Keffy’s Shop”, situated at 1221 Blue Marlin Boulevard, Coral Grove Area, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that RAMON GONGORA is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Puma’s Ramon’s Service Station”, situated at 2 Miles Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that WEI JIE LUO is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Liang Kee Fast Food”, situated at 2 ½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that XIANQIN LUO is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Louis Shop”, situated at 5701 Lizarraga Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that WEN KANG CHEN is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Dragon Restaurant”, situated at 9 Neal Pen Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

THE BELIZE TIMES

21

22 Guatemala swears in new president after Perez Molina resigns THE BELIZE TIMES

September 3, 2015 Guatemala’s newly sworn-in president demanded that all top government officials submit their resignations and promised an honest and inclusive administration following the surprise resignation earlier Thursday of President Otto Perez Molina amid a widening fraud investigation.

President Alejandro Maldonado reached out to protesters who took to the streets against the country’s entrenched corruption, promising he would “leave a legacy of honesty” and restore faith in Guatemala’s democracy in his brief few months in office.

“You can’t consider your work done,” Maldonado said in remarks aimed at all those demanding change.

“In what is left of this year, there must be a positive response.”

The unprecedented political drama played out after a week in which Perez Molina was stripped of his immunity, deserted by key members of his cabinet, and saw his jailed former vice president ordered to stand trial. All this just days before Sunday’s election to choose his successor.

As Maldonado took office, Perez Molina was in court hearing accusations that he was involved in a scheme in which businesspeople paid bribes to avoid import duties through Guatemala’s customs agency. He is the first Guatemalan president to resign.

Judge Miguel Angel Galvez ordered Perez Molina detained overnight before the hearing was to resume Friday morning. He cited a need to “ensure the continuity of the hearing” and guarantee the former president’s personal safety.

Exiting the court under police escort, Perez Molina reiterated his willingness to face the investigation head-on.

“I have always said I will respect due process,” Molina said “I do not have the slightest intention of leaving the country.”

Earlier in the day, the retired military general insisted upon his innocence in an interview with The Associated Press during a break in the court proceedings, saying the process had been “very hard, very difficult.”

He said he could have derailed the investigation, but didn’t.

“I had things I could have done,” Perez Molina said. “I could have replaced the prosecutor, I could have dug in.”

Attorney General Thelma Aldana told reporters she will ask that Perez Molina, 64, be jailed during the court proceedings.

Analysts say the resignation was a key blow to corruption in the country and a boost for the rule of law.

“In the midst of this political crisis there is interesting and good news,” said Eric Olson, a Central America expert at the Washington-based Wilson Center. “The attorney general resisted strong pressures and even asked for the president to be incarcerated ... that shows the institutions in Guatemala under the right circumstances can operate and be effective.”

Maldonado, a 79-year-old conser-

Guatemala’s President Otto Perez Molina, right, talks with his lawyer Cesar Calderon in court where he faces corruption charges, following his resignation in Guatemala City, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015. The president submitted his resignation at midnight local time late Wednesday after a judge issued an order to detain him in a corruption scandal. Perez Molina was already under order not to leave the country, and on Tuesday the congress lifted his immunity from prosecution. Luis Soto AP Photo

vative former high court justice, has served as Guatemala’s foreign minister and in ambassadorial posts. He also formerly headed Guatemala’s highest court, where he presided over muchdebated decisions like the one not to extradite former dictator Efrain Rios Montt.

Rios Montt faced charges in Spain for genocide, torture and terrorism committed at the height of Guatemala’s 1960-1996 civil war, and the decision against extradition was hotly criticized.

Upon taking office Thursday, Maldonado said he was going to “form a transition government and invite all the social groups that are protesting in the streets to propose young professionals to form the new administration.”

Earlier in the day, Perez Molina gave an interview to a local radio station, saying that he doesn’t “trust Guatemalan justice” and criticizing the nation’s prosecutors and the United Nations

commission against impunity that have mounted a huge investigation in the fiscal fraud case he was implicated in.

He said the case was built by them to “seek prominence” and “to fill their egos.”

The corruption scandal, uncovered by prosecutors and the U.N. commission, involved a scheme known as “La Linea,” or “The Line,” in which businesspeople paid bribes to avoid import duties through the customs agency.

The ring is believed to have defrauded the state of millions of dollars.

Ex-Vice President Roxana Baldetti’s former personal secretary was named as the alleged ringleader and is a fugitive. She resigned May 8 because of the same scandal and is now jailed and facing charges. She also maintains her innocence.

A growing protest movement brought together Guatemalans from all walks of life demanding that Perez

6 SEP

2015 Molina step down. Business leaders and even Catholic church officials had called for him to resign in recent weeks as the investigation of the customs fraud ring has grown wider and hit more officials.

Perez Molina was steadfast in his plan to stay until the judge’s unprecedented order, only deciding to resign in the middle of the night.

His spokesman told reporters the president submitted his resignation “to maintain the institution of the presidency and resolve on his own the legal proceedings leveled against him.”

Perez Molina was elected in 2011 on a platform of cracking down on crime. He is a retired general who participated in the country’s 36-year bloody civil war, and later in the march toward peace. His critics say he also took part in the mass killings of civilians, but he has never been charged with anything.

His election as president had worried leftist groups and human rights organizations because of the military’s past control of the government.

But Perez Molina has been a political moderate who has kept the military at arm’s length, proposing at one point to legalize drugs to rid his country of the scourge of cartels and trafficking.

Maldonado will likely remain in office until the winner of upcoming elections is inaugurated Jan. 14, 2016.

The first round is on Sunday, pitting a wealthy businessman and politician against 13 other candidates, including a comedian with no political experience, a former first lady and the daughter of an ex-dictator accused of genocide. If none of the candidates reaches 50 percent, a runoff will be held Oct. 25.

Protesters filling the streets have also demanded that Sunday’s presidential elections be postponed. Perez Molina, who was not on the ballot, has said delaying the vote would be against the law.

The U.N.’s commission against impunity said in a report released in mid-July that the country’s elections are rife with illegal money, and corruption is the glue holding the system together.

6 SEP

2015

23

THE BELIZE TIMES

The Real Deal!

“Our children in 2015 cannot continue to suffer in darkness,” says PUP Rep. Hon. Oscar Requeña Belize City, September 3, 2015 This time there was no beating of his chest. No thumping of the podium and no bravado language, as Prime Minister Barrow ate his own vomit and announced that Fortis Inc. has been welcomed back to Belize Electricity Limited.

The return of Fortis is first and foremost admittance that their 2011 takeover of the company was wrong headed. But what’s worse is that even with 100% control of the company for four long years, the Government of Belize could not invest in a single major electricity expansion project anywhere in the country.

Speaking at Wednesday’s House Meeting, Hon. Oscar Requeña spoke boldly about the Government’s neglect of the Toledo district, where there has been no electricity expansion ever since the UDP took office.

“Toledo West has not seen a single benefit under this takeover of government for BEL, absolutely no benefits Mr. Speaker and I want to make that absolutely clear. I challenge the PM and his government, I want them to point out to one single village in Toledo West that has seen electrification under this government. None, none, none, zero under the UDP,” stated Hon. Requeña.

While the UDP may take the criticism as a joke, as they do with most serious matters, Hon. Requeña reminded them that it is the people who are suffering.

“You know we have hundreds of students going to these high schools and it is a shame today that after eight years of UDP government these students still are studying, using a lamp, having to use a flashlight and they have no access to electricity. That is the reality Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker students want to make sure that in this day and age of technology that they can have access to the internet, that they can use a computer, that they can print their work. That is what they want… so no beating of the chest to say that you are a patriot is going to benefit our people. We want to see that BEL work for the people,” he said.

Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia also reminded the members of the House that the “prohibitive” cost of electricity is also a concern. She said that even under Government’s control it appears that profits are place above the Belizean people.

“Nationalisation must mean something…where is the benefit for the Belizean people,” she asked.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that HAI SHENG YE is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Campus Shop”, situated at 67 Cemetery Lane, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

A Blue Tuna Produkshan Be Proud to be Belizean not only by waving our flag during our September Celebrations, but by defending our territorial sovereignty and our natural resources on both land and sea throughout our Belizean jewel.

Join and support the Belizean Territorial Volunteers and do your part to protect our Belizean Patrimony.

A fiery Hon. Oscar Requena defends his people in Toledo West

Rosalie Staines, MBE, DCSE, JP Thank You!!

PM’s bodyguard charged for murder City of Belmopan, September 1, 2015 One of the Police bodyguards assigned to Prime Minister Dean Barrow and his family, 33 year old Police Corporal Ryon Wagner, has been arrested and charged for the murder of a Nicaraguan national.

Wagner was charged on Monday, August 31st, after he and another Police Officer went to the Police Station on Friday, August 28th, claiming that they had killed a man.

They both appeared to be intoxicated. But the two could

CARTOON

Eduardo Manuel Perez Sanchez

Police Corporal Ryon Wagner

not be charged for the same crime; therefore, after Police investigations Wagner was slapped with the charge.

The victim is Nicaraguan national, Eduardo Manuel Perez Sanchez. His lifeless body was found on a road in

Teakettle Village by a passer-by in the wee hours of Saturday morning.

Sanchez’ head was covered with a black T-shirt. He had two gunshot wounds to his head.

Police continue their investigations to find out the circumstances of the murder.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

6 SEP

2015