By Belize Live News Staff: Belize’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Kevin Bernard, confirmed on Monday that the government’s $6.9 million payment to businessman Kenny Zheng for land earmarked for the new hospital was made in three installments, not a single lump sum as previously reported.
The clarification comes amid weeks of speculation and allegations of corruption surrounding the land purchase. Bernard addressed the issue at a press conference, stating that a down payment was made in June, followed by another installment in July, with the balance paid off subsequently. He emphasized that this payment schedule adhered to a standard purchasing agreement and dismissed suggestions of impropriety.
The minister’s statement directly countered claims made by the President of the Public Service Union, who had alleged that a lump sum payment was made shortly after initial installments, implying potential corruption.
In a separate development, Bernard acknowledged the existence of a technical report advising the government to relocate the hospital site. However, he stated that the report is a confidential Cabinet document and therefore not available for public release.
