By Zoila Palma: Today, Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton issued a statement explaining that residents constitutional rights still matter even during a State of Emergency.
On Sunday, the Minister of National Security announced the immediate implementation of a State of Emergency via Statutory Instrument No 130 of 2026 signed by the Governor General, Froyla Tzalam (Gazetted 31st October, 2026).
“A temporary emergency measure to address a serious threat to public safety. It may cover specific communities or a wider area, as identified in the official proclamation. Depending on the emergency regulations and orders in force, curfews, movement, security operations, warrantless searches, gatherings and detentions,” Panton explained.
However, Panton added that a state of emergency does not constitute the removal of all constitutional protections.
“An SOE does not remove all constitutional protections. Emergency restrictions must be reasonably justified by the situation. People detained under emergency laws retain safeguards, including access to private legal consultation and review by an independent tribunal,” she added.
The Leader of the Opposition urged everyone to follow lawful instructions and share verified information.
The post Leader of Opposition explains that residents’ constitutional rights still matter during a State of Emergency appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Today, Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton issued a statement explaining that residents constitutional rights still matter even during a State of Emergency. On Sunday, the Minister of National Security announced the immediate implementation of a State of Emergency via Statutory Instrument No 130 of 2026 signed by the Governor General, Froyla
The post Leader of Opposition explains that residents’ constitutional rights still matter during a State of Emergency appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
