Legal challenge seeks to halt general elections over redistricting concerns

Published by BBNTEAM at February 13, 2025

Posted: Thursday, February 13, 2025. 5:38 pm CST.

By Aaron Humes: A claim has been filed in the High Court seeking to prevent the upcoming general elections in Belize, citing failure to conduct a constitutionally mandated redistricting exercise. The claimants – Jerry Enriquez, Rudolph Norales also known as Nigel Petillo and Jessica Tulcey, represented by Trinidadian Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, argue that proceeding with elections without redrawing electoral boundaries violates the principle of equal representation embedded in the democratic process.

During a hearing that spanned over seven hours, Ramlogan argued remotely before Justice Tawanda Hondora, urging the court to compel the Prime Minister to revoke his advice to the Governor-General to dissolve Parliament as of Tuesday, February 11, and issue a writ for elections. Ramlogan contended that elections should only occur following a comprehensive redistricting that ensures the current 31 constituencies are fairly aligned in terms of voter numbers. Current estimates reveal stark disparities, with constituencies like Mesopotamia in Belize City having around 2,500 voters, while others, such as Stann Creek West, feature over 10,000 voters.

Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay, representing the Attorney General, asserted during his arguments that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter and called for the application to be dismissed. Courtenay criticized the timing of the claim, suggesting the application was filed too late—beyond what is considered reasonable for such a challenge.

After extensive arguments, Justice Hondora requested both parties to submit written arguments by Friday, February 14. The attorney representing the Elections and Boundaries Department has been granted leave to provide submissions by Monday, February 17. Justice Hondora assured parties that a decision would be forthcoming early next week.

Attorneys from both sides opted not to comment as they exited court, leaving open the question of whether the anticipated general election will be halted in its tracks.

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