By Zoila Palma: The Elections and Boundaries Commission says Belize’s redistricting process is expected to extend into next year, as work continues to address outstanding legal and technical requirements.
Following a request by XTV Belize for an update on the exercise, the Commission provided details on the progress made since its last redivision exercise in 2023, the work remaining and the anticipated timeline. The Commission confirmed that it is not yet in a position to provide a fixed completion date.
The Commission explained that it completed a redivision exercise in 2023 and submitted its report and proposals to the National Assembly on July 11 of that year. However, the proposals were never enacted into law.
The Commission also identified concerns involving Sections 89 and 90 of the Constitution, particularly regarding population distribution, permissible deviations and the number of electoral divisions.
Following a review of the 2023 exercise, it requested that the Attorney General’s Ministry consider whether constitutional amendments were necessary. The Commission stated, “The Commission is awaiting the outcome of that review.”
Meanwhile, the Elections and Boundaries Department’s September 2026 figures record approximately 212,000 registered electors across Belize’s 31 electoral divisions.
The Commission said further work includes finalizing the legal and technical methodology, securing technical support, analyzing updated electoral data and preparing proposals for consideration and presentation to the National Assembly. It emphasized that its responsibilities remain in effect despite the pending legislative review, stating, “The Commission does not suggest that its constitutional responsibilities are suspended while the proposed legislative review is taking place.”
In addition, the Commission explained that the completion of the exercise depends partly on the outcome of the legislative review and the finalization of the necessary framework.
It stated, “The Commission is not presently in a position to give a fixed completion date for completion of the further redivision exercise.” It also acknowledged that persistent litigation has placed a heavy burden on its operations, but stressed that it remains committed to fulfilling its mandate.
The Commission added, “The Commission recognizes its continuing responsibilities under section 90 of the Constitution and intends to progress the exercise as expeditiously as is reasonably practicable.”
The Commission further indicated that recent statements by Prime Minister John Briceño in the House regarding expected constitutional amendments have encouraged its efforts. It stated, “It is anticipated therefore that the completion time for the redistricting process will flow into next year.”
The Commission also clarified that any approved changes to electoral boundaries will only take effect at the next general election following the redivision, in accordance with Section 91 of the Constitution.
The post Redistricting process to extend into 2027, Elections and Boundaries Commission says appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The Elections and Boundaries Commission says Belize’s redistricting process is expected to extend into next year, as work continues to address outstanding legal and technical requirements. Following a request by XTV Belize for an update on the exercise, the Commission provided details on the progress made since its last redivision exercise in
The post Redistricting process to extend into 2027, Elections and Boundaries Commission says appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
