By Belize Live News Staff: Discussions have surfaced surrounding a potential buyout of Speednet Communications and local cable providers by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), although no official action has been taken to date. Still, concerns are mounting over possible conflicts of interest, particularly involving the family of Prime Minister John Briceño, who reportedly holds shares in both Speednet and Centaur Communications.
BTL, though privately owned on paper, is still partially controlled by the Government of Belize under Title 13 of the Constitution. That duality has stirred speculation on the fairness and transparency of any potential acquisition.
On Wednesday, businessman Lord Michael Ashcroft further ignited public scrutiny by pointing out on Channel 5 News that his firm, Waterloo Investments, holds majority shares in Speednet. His remarks come at a time when Telemedia is rumored to be exploring a consolidation of telecom services in Belize.
When asked about the situation, Prime Minister Briceño told reporters, “I don’t know, you’ll have to talk to the people at BTL and the people at Smart.”
Pressed about the potential conflict of interest involving his family, the Prime Minister responded: “I wish it would be my family that owns Smart, but those things are discussed at the management level and then it goes to the board. I can assure you that if something were to happen, it has to be in the interest of BTL and the interest of the Belizean people.”
As the story develops, many Belizeans are asking — who really stands to benefit if such a deal goes through, and will transparency win out?
Stay with Belize Live News for the latest updates.
