By Belize Live News Staff: The people of Caye Caulker have made their voices heard, and the answer is a clear “No” to marijuana legalization on the island.
In Wednesday’s referendum, 857 ballots were cast, representing a 58.94% voter turnout. Of those, 678 voters (79.11%) rejected legalization, while 176 (20.54%) voted in favor. Three ballots were rejected.
The “No” campaign, led by members of the “Hope Not Dope” movement, declared a resounding victory, calling the result a reflection of the island’s moral and community values.
Church Senator Louis Wade described the outcome as a moral stand. “This is a moral issue, not a money issue,” he said, adding that the campaign was organized by four local pastors and concerned residents determined to keep cannabis off the island.
Following the result, several pastors dedicated the victory to God, saying Caye Caulker remains an island of unity and faith.
Wade also renewed his call for a national referendum on marijuana legalization, noting that while Caye Caulker has spoken, the wider country must also decide. Meanwhile, some residents are pushing for a new referendum to allow the island to retain a larger share of its revenue for local development.
