By Breaking Belize News Staff: The Belize Police Department has indicated that activities associated with Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19 could face restrictions as authorities continue enforcing the current state of emergency.
During Monday’s police press briefing, ASP Stacy Smith was questioned about whether special provisions would be made to accommodate the annual celebrations, particularly the various cultural activities and festivities that traditionally take place around Garifuna Settlement Day.
Police acknowledged the importance of the celebrations but emphasized that public safety remains the primary consideration while emergency regulations are in effect.
Authorities explained that any restrictions imposed on constitutional rights should be limited to what is necessary to achieve the objectives of the state of emergency, stressing that the intention is not to unnecessarily curtail the rights of law-abiding citizens.
However, police cautioned that the celebrations cannot automatically proceed as usual while the state of emergency remains in effect.
They indicated that priority consideration would be given to the main Garifuna Settlement Day event, while other associated festivities could face additional restrictions.
Garifuna Settlement Day, observed annually on November 19, commemorates the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belize in 1802 and is traditionally marked by cultural performances, drumming, dancing, religious services and reenactments of their arrival by sea.
The celebrations are particularly prominent in Dangriga, Hopkins, Seine Bight and other Garifuna communities, attracting participants and visitors from across the country.
Police said arrangements for this year’s celebrations remain under review and assured that the public would be notified in advance of any special provisions or restrictions.
No final decision has yet been announced regarding which activities will be permitted under the state of emergency.
The post Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations could face restrictions under state of emergency, police say appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Breaking Belize News Staff: The Belize Police Department has indicated that activities associated with Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19 could face restrictions as authorities continue enforcing the current state of emergency. During Monday’s police press briefing, ASP Stacy Smith was questioned about whether special provisions would be made to accommodate the annual celebrations,
The post Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations could face restrictions under state of emergency, police say appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
