By Belize Live News Staff: Prime Minister John Briceño has voiced frustration over what he sees as a lack of patriotism among Belizeans, calling on citizens to show more pride by singing the national anthem, “Land of the Free,” at public events.
Briceño raised the issue twice this week, first at the Muy’Ono Philanthropy Program ceremony and again during the inauguration of Belize Water Services (BWS). At both events, the prime minister halted proceedings when the anthem started, urging participants, including students from Caye Caulker, to move to the front and sing along loudly.
“It really upsets me that people don’t want to sing our national anthem. We always say we love Belize—well, show it. Sing the anthem, pick up the garbage, practice how much you love this country,” Briceño said, emphasizing the importance of patriotism.
Briceño also acknowledged his personal limitations, saying, “I’m a terrible singer. I don’t do karaoke. But in my heart, I sing the anthem, and I wish more people would sing it loudly with pride. It’s a beautiful moment when we show our love for this country.”
The Prime Minister urged that national pride needs to be cultivated early in life. “We need to teach our children how important it is to sing the anthem with pride. That’s why, when I noticed people weren’t singing, I stopped and asked them to start over. The media should call it out too,” he added.
