Senators Call for Immediate Pause on BTL’s Proposed $170M Acquisition

If indeed Cansino is against the 170-million-dollar acquisition by Belize Telemedia Limited, she is not the only one.  Four independent members of the Senate have jointly called for an immediate pause on any decisions related to the planned acquisition of commercial interests by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), citing concerns over transparency, constitutionality, and the potential creation of a monopoly.  While the senators have declined to give an interview on the matter, they did indicate in today’s joint statement that are aligning with calls from the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) for full disclosure before any acquisition proceeds. The union president, Ella Waight, says what the senators are asking for is no different than what the union is demanding.  

The senators stressed that relevant information must be made public, including independent valuations and the rationale behind the proposed transactions.  The Senators further warned that any move which would transform the telecommunications landscape into a monopoly would be regressive and contrary to the principles of fair competition. They said such a shift could have long-term implications for consumers, businesses, and the wider economy.  Invoking their oath to uphold the Constitution and the principles of social justice, the independent Senators stated that they are prepared to act collectively within the Senate to oppose what they described as a troubling initiative. The statement was jointly signed by Kevin Herrera, Louis Wade, Glenfield Dennison, and Janelle Chanona.