BNTU Calls Out GOB’s Deceptive Tactics and Labor Commissioner’s Intimidation as Industrial Action Escalates

By: Omar Silva I Editor/Publisher

National Perspective Belize I Digital 2025

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

BELIZE CITY | Friday 30th May 2025

The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has delivered a firm message to the Government of Belize: “We are not afraid, and we will not be manipulated.” This statement comes in the wake of a rejected 3% salary adjustment offer, paired with a slow-drip plan to restore increments and raises over four years—an offer teachers describe as insulting and dishonest.

The Briceno Administration’s proposal included:

A 3% salary adjustment starting October 2025,

The return of only one frozen increment in April 2026,

And a vague promise to restore more over four years.

This “offer” comes after teachers made enormous sacrifices during the COVID-19 pandemic, working through online platforms while their salaries and increments were frozen. Now, with inflation surging and the cost of living rising daily, the government is offering back what it unjustly took—not as a reinstatement, but as a gift spread over years.

“That was not an offer. That was manipulation wrapped in delay tactics,” said Coral Lord, BNTU Belize District President.

“We’re not asking for charity. We’re demanding what is already ours.”

⚖️ Labor Commissioner Accused of Intimidation

Amid this standoff, Labor Commissioner Rissela Dominguez-Patt has entered the fray—not as a neutral party, but as a mouthpiece for the state, warning teachers that failure to follow certain procedures could result in fines and imprisonment.

While Dominguez-Patt clarified that the Settlement of Disputes in Essential Services Act does not apply to the BNTU, she nonetheless issued vague warnings about the legal consequences of industrial action—remarks many see as a deliberate attempt to intimidate educators and discourage legitimate protest.

“We will not be bullied by laws that don’t apply to us,” said BNTU President Nadia Caliz.

“The law is clear, and so is our resolve.”

Indeed, the collective bargaining agreement signed between the union and the government provides the teachers with a clear grievance mechanism—which the BNTU has followed to the letter. What is not acceptable, according to union leaders, is the government’s weaponization of public institutions to silence dissent.

💚 #WeMatter Movement Gains National Momentum

From Belmopan to Dangriga to San Pedro, BNTU members launched a nationwide picketing campaign under the banner #WeMatter, marking the second phase of their industrial action. Teachers lined highways, visited businesses, distributed flyers, and flooded social media—garnering widespread support from parents and the public.

“When the spending power of teachers increases, the entire economy benefits,” Coral Lord reminded the public.

“We support local shops, we fuel growth, and we build this nation.”

🧱 Government’s Political Hypocrisy Exposed

Prime Minister John Briceño’s repeated claims of “working with teachers” were sharply undermined by his administration’s recent actions. His statement—“I love teachers so much I married one”—was met with sharp criticism, especially since Rosana Briceño, the First Lady and a former teacher, has remained silent on the standoff.

“Love is not enough. We want justice, not romance,” said one protestor in Belmopan.

🚨 Final Word: Teachers Are Ready to Escalate

The rejection of the government’s 3% offer was decisive—75% of BNTU members voted “NO”. Now, with NTUCB, PSU, APSSM, and the UB Faculty Union standing in solidarity, the possibility of full industrial shutdown looms large.

“This government thinks we will fold. They’re mistaken,” said Caliz.

“We’ve marched before. We’ve stood up before. And we’ll do it again—for dignity, for justice, and for the future of Belize.”

🗣️ CALL TO ACTION

The public is urged to support Belize’s educators—not just with words, but with presence. Parents, students, workers, and allies are being called to stand shoulder to shoulder with teachers. Because when teachers are under attack, the whole nation suffers.