PM Briceno Hosts #PlanBelize Forum with Newly Elected Mayors

Prime Minister John Briceno has taken off the Easter Break, but not before bringing all the PUP newly elected mayors together for a #PlanBelize forum.  The first part of the event happened last night in rural Cayo where a mixer took place.  This followed today with a discussion segment.  Prime Minister Briceno was accompanied by representatives from the Ministry of Local Government to sensitize and strengthen the relationship between the central government and the various Municipalities. According to the government, the discussions include development projects, concerns of residents, challenges of the municipal authorities, and strengthening legislation that governs the respective cities and towns. Briceno spoke with Love News on the importance of the event.

Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “It’s important for us to be able to have a good communication with them. For them to understand what is expected from them, what they can do within the law and probably to have some alignment with Plan Belize so that they could also see how we could align their work with ours and to find better cooperation amongst the municipal bodies and national government. It was important for the ministry to invite the mayors that have been just elected for us to be able to talk to them, talk to them about Plan Belize but secondly also to explain to them what are their responsibilities, what they can do under the law, what they cannot do and to ensure that there is constant communication between the ministry and themselves. One of the things I spoke to them about is also that there was mutual respect between the area representatives and the Mayors and the councils and secondly that also Mayors must also consult with their councilors, the members of the board of directors. I think it was a very good meeting and I commend Minister Requena on this initiative.” 

During the meeting, the Belize Mayors’ Association held elections and selected a new executive committee for 2024-2025. The body voted Corozal Town Mayor, Rigoberto Vellos as President, Orange Walk Town Mayor Ladrick Sheppard as Vice President, Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner as Treasurer, and San Pedro Town Mayor Gualberto Nunez as Secretary. The association says, “We are confident in their ability to lead the Belize Mayors’ Association with integrity, dedication, and a commitment to serving the interests of our municipalities and communities.” Additionally, Belize City Councilor Eluide Miller was selected to serve as the Executive Secretary for the current municipal term.