Punta Gorda voter list controversy sparks legal challenge in Belize

Justice of the Peace and former mayoral candidate Leeroy Supaul has filed objections to six names on Punta Gorda Town’s provisional voters list, alleging that the individuals – including former PUP Senator Bevington Cal – do not reside in the town. The challenge raises concerns that voters from nearby Bella Vista Village are being transferred onto the Punta Gorda municipal roll ahead of next year’s elections, potentially padding the list for internal People’s United Party (PUP) factional battles.

The Elections and Boundaries Department has refused to release the inspection report used to verify the registrations, citing privilege. Attorney Orson Elrington warned the court that the report should be disclosed, while Supaul emphasized that “these people… do not live in Punta Gorda Town.” A revising officer is set to hear the six cases at the Punta Gorda Magistrate’s Court on July 30, as the Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai reiterates the legal requirements for voter transfers.

The dispute underscores broader calls for transparency in Belize’s voter registration process and highlights tensions within the PUP over the upcoming municipal slate.