Belmopan. May 3, 2022. 2:15 p.m.
Under Section 2 of the Referendum Act, signatures have been submitted to the Governor General to commence the process of issuing a writ of referendum.
Over the last year and four months, the government has repeatedly demonstrated its good faith and commitment to the consultation process in relation to the passage of the Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Control and Licensing Bill.
While the bill received support from both the government and opposition in the National Assembly, Cabinet placed a hold on the signing into law in order to receive even further recommendations and to allow the churches an opportunity to present their petition for a referendum.
In accordance with the Referendum Act, the petition will now undergo the process of vetting and verification by the Elections and Boundaries Department.
The government commits to continue to shepherd the process with respect for all concerned with the deference and dignity of valuing all lawful and reasonable input.
This is an inspiring and encouraging day for the democratic system of opinions, as well as the weighing judgment of public consensus.
The Government of Belize is confident that in the end the right and best decisions will be made as a country.
Ends
