Cannabis Legalization Referendum Moves Forward in Caye Caulker

Last week, we reported on efforts in Caye Caulker to bring the question of marijuana legalization to a public vote. This week, that effort has taken a major step forward. Organizers have successfully gathered the required number of signatures to trigger a referendum on cannabis legalization and regulation. The petition, led by Caye Caulker Village Councillor Ilya Rosado, was officially submitted to the Office of the Governor General earlier this week. The petition will now be reviewed by the Elections and Boundaries Department to verify the signatures. If validated, the proposed measure will appear on the ballot during the upcoming Village Council elections on May 29. Rosado says while the initiative is not officially backed by the Village Council, he believes legal cannabis could provide much-needed revenue for the island’s development. 

Ilya Rosado, Village Councillor: “This proposal concerns the legalization and regulation of cannabis on the island. Over four years ago, hemp was legalized in Belize, giving Belize the opportunity to grow and sell hemp-derived products in the country. Less than two years ago, a proposal was introduced to legalize cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes. Today, Caye Caulker is taking a step forward. According to the law, to present a proposed bill on a ballot for elections the village needs to collect at least 25 % of signatures from registered voters on the island. On Wednesday, May 14th, we started a campaign to collect these signatures and we presented them to the Governor General. If we comply, this initiative will appear on the upcoming ballot in the next village council elections on June 29th, 2025. This is a historic moment not just for Caye Caulker but for the country of Belize. Regulation means strict age limits and controlled access. Right now, minors have access to cannabis because it’s unregulated. Legalization allows us to educate, prevent abuse, and enforce rules just like with alcohol and tobacco. It’s now time for the Elections and Boundaries office to make the final count. And if we qualify, we will have a proposed bill concerning the legalization of cannabis on ballot on the next upcoming elections in Caye Caulker. In the end, You the people of Caye Caulker have a voice and you will get to decide if this island is ready for the start of a new industry.”

We’ll continue to follow this story.