Cannabis Legalization Debate in Belize Intensifies Ahead of Caye Caulker Referendum

The ongoing conversation about cannabis legalization in Belize continues to spark debate, especially among the nation’s religious community. As the country moves toward a referendum on the issue, particularly for Caye Caulker, Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa has offered his perspective on the role of churches in this process.  He noted that while the churches have a right to advocate against the proposed legislation, he expects them to ultimately respect the will of the people once a decision is made.

Kareem Musa, minister of Home Affairs: “I expect a push back from the churches. It’s always expected but if you recall what Pastor Wade, now Senator Wade, had said in the lead up to the referendum was that let the people decide. If the people decide we want cannabis then by all means let us create legislation, responsible, regulated legislation to allow for an industry to be created. So in the lead up to the referendum I expect them to advocate against it but at the same time I expect them to respect it once the decision is made.”

Minister Musa notes that a referendum allows the public to have their say, and if the majority of Belizeans vote in favor of cannabis legislation, then lawmakers should proceed to create a responsible and regulated industry.  Meanwhile, Prime Minister John Briceno has committed to tightening the requirements for triggering a referendum, as a result of this recent petition on marijuana legalization.