People’s Referendum on Offshore Oil in Belize Signed into Law

Governor General Froyla Tzalam has signed into law the Referendum (Amendment) Bill 2023 which expands the circumstances in which a referendum must be held to include any proposed amendment or repeal, whether expressed or implied of the Petroleum Operations (Maritime Zone Moratorium) Act.  This is equally applicable to any proposed legislation that affects the carrying on of petroleum operations within the limits of the maritime zone of Belize.  In a release issued by Oceana earlier today, Vice President Janelle Chanona stated, “the consistent actions of the Belizean people have led to this pivotal achievement of people power.  We commend the Briceño administration for exerting leadership on this national issue and recognizing the importance of the people’s participation in decision making around a precious resource, our Caribbean Sea.  We look forward to promoting this exemplary achievement as an example for the rest of the world to follow”.  For his part, Prime Minister John Briceño said, “the amendment is a testament to cooperation and collaboration in protecting our invaluable natural resources”.