The message above was submitted as a press release by The San Pedro Liquor Licensing Committee, by the Belize Police Department and the Elections and Boundaries Department. However, news reaching our office state that “because San Pedro is considered a tourist destination” then the hours were changed by the local Liquor Licensing Authorities.
As such liquor license holders and the general public is informed that no liquor may be sold on Election Day, March 4th, from 7:00 a.m. unitl the VOTING PROCESS has been completed at 6:00 p.m. At 5:30 p.m. information was received from Chairman of the San Pedro Liquor Licensing Board Giovannie Marin who informed the general public that the time frame has been changed again. According to Marin, alcohol is not to be sold until the completion of the counting of votes on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. ONLY Restaurant Liquor License holding establishments will be able to serve liquor but ONLY to people that are having meals.
As for firearms, with the exception of policemen, soldiers and authorized public officers on official duties, it is now prohibited to carry firearms on polling day. It (SI#35 of 2009) states: “…no person shall carry, discharge or use any firearm or ammunition in any public place within one hundred yards…between the hours of the opening of the polling day and the completion of the counting of ballot papers”.
The Commissioner insists the public take note as the police will uphold the laws with vigilance.