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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Belize is divided into thirty-one electoral divisions.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Part VI, Section 89 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 17: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-people-act-2011
Verified: 2025/03/24
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: "When the Elections and Boundaries Commission considers it necessary to increase the number of electoral divisions, it shall make proposals to the National Assembly, and the National Assembly may enact a law to give effect to such proposals."
Source: Section 90(4), Belize Constitution Act, 2000
Verified: 2004/10/27
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers g . Other
Comments: Transport and other facilities of the division are also taken into consideration.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Part VI, Section 90: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 17: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-people-act-2011
Verified: 2025/03/24
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
c . Number of registered voters
Comments:
Source: Constitution: Section 90 (1).
Verified: 2011/05/31
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber) e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The Electoral and Boundaries Commission is the only Electoral Management Body that is empowered to make proposals on boundary redistricting to the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Part VI, Section 90: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 17 (2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-people-act-2011
Verified: 2025/03/24
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
c . Changes in numbers of registered voters d . Changes in distribution of total population
Comments: "The Elections and Boundaries Commission shall, after considering the distribution of the population throughout Belize, make proposals from time to time for dividing Belize into electoral divisions in such a way that-
(a) each electoral division shall have as nearly as may be an equal
number of persons eligible to vote;
(b) the total number of electoral divisions shall be not less than
twenty-eight."
Source: Constitution: Section 90 (1).
Verified: 2004/10/27
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
f . Inherited monarchy with a Governor appointed by the Monarch
Comments: Belize is part of the Commowealth. As such, the Governor-General appointed by Her Majesty must be a citizen of Belize and shall be Her Majesty's Representative in Belize.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Sections 30 & 36: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The Prime Minister is appointed by the Governor General. Whenever the Governor-General has occasion to appoint a Prime Minister he shall appoint a member of the House of Representatives who is the leader of the political party which commands the support of the majority of the members of that House; and if no political party has an overall majority, he shall appoint a member of that House who appears to him likely to command the support of the majority of the members of that House.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 37: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Belize is a parliamentary democracy, whose Prime Minister is appointed by the Governor General.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 30 & 36: aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: Belize’s National Assembly comprises two Houses: A House of Representatives and a Senate.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 55: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The House of Representatives is composed of 31 elected members elected in single-member constituencies.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 56 (1), 89 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 17 (3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
j . By appointment
Comments: There are 12 members and 1 President. The Governor General appoints the Senators, out of which 3 belong to the Opposition; 6 to the Government; one to the Business Community, one to the Church, and one to the Trade Union.
Source: Membership and Composition of The Senate (Amendments) Act No. 39 of 2001.
Verified: 2003/11/25
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments: Plurality System.
Source: EL: Representation of the People Act (ROPA) 17 (1) and (3).
Verified: 2004/10/27
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: For the purposes of the election of the members of the House of representatives, Belize is divided into 29 electoral divisions.
Source: C: Sec. 90.
EL: ROPA: 17 (3).
Verified: 2003/08/20
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: All senators are appointed.
Source: Membership and Composition of The Senate (Amendments) Act No. 39 of 2001.
Verified: 2003/11/25
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Each electoral division shall be represented in the House of Representatives by one elected member.
Source: ROPA: 17 (3).
Verified: 2003/08/20
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Governor-General appoints Senators, according to the following criteria: 3 seats for the Opposition, 6 seats for the Government and 1 seat for the Business Community, 1 seat for the Church, and 1 seat for the Trade Union.
Source: Electoral Office.
Verified: 2004/10/27
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: Representatives are elected by the FPTP system.
Source: EL: Representation of the People Act (ROPA) 17 (1) and (3).
Verified: 2004/10/27
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Members are appointed.
Source: EL: Representation of the People Act (ROPA) 17 (1) and (3).
Verified: 2004/10/27
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: Plurality system.
Source: EL: Representation of the People Act (ROPA) 17 (1) and (3).
Verified: 2004/10/27
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: EL: Representation of the People Act (ROPA) 17 (1) and (3)
Verified: 2003/11/25
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: The Governor General may prorogue or dissolve the National Assembly. In the exercise of his powers to dissolve the National Assembly, the GG shall act in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister. Other than during time of war, the National Assembly shall continue for 5 years from the date of the first sitting of the House of Representatives. At any time where Belize is at war, the National Assembly may by law extend the period of 5 years for not more than 12 months at a time, provided that it is not extended for more than 2 years.
Source: C: Sec. 84.
Verified: 2004/10/27
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Every Senator shall vacate his seat at the next dissolution of the National Assembly after his appointment.
Source: C: 64.
Verified: 2003/06/13
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: The voting takes place on one day from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (unless otherwise directed by the Writ of Election issued by the Governor-General).
Source: EL: ROPA 11.
Verified: 2003/11/25
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/07/09
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88–93: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
Recall Law: “Recall of Elected Representatives Act, Chapter 9:01”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-recall-of-elected-representatives-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: The current Ordinance was enacted in 1978. The present revised edition shows all amendments in force until December 31, 2000.
Source:
Verified: 2003/11/25
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections d . Referendums
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88–93: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
Recall Law: “Recall of Elected Representatives Act, Chapter 9:01”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-recall-of-elected-representatives-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 92: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Voter Turnout Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/question-country?question_id=9240&country=23&database_theme=293
Verified: 2025/03/24
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: No such provisions in the Law. For the first time on March 5, 2003, the dates coincided to have national and local elections on the same day.
Source: CEO of Belize.
Verified: 2003/08/20
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/07/09
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: Every election petition shall be tried by the Chief Justice or by a judge of the Supreme Court nominated by the Chief Justice for the purpose.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 47: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Article 47(1), Representation of the People Act
Verified: 2003/11/25
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters
Comments: The Petitioner may be a person who voted or had the right to vote, or was a candidate at the election.
Source: Schedule Four, Representation of the People Act
Verified: 2006/11/17
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: The Court of Appeal
Source: Section 61, Electoral Law
Verified: 2002/07/09
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
b . Legislative Committee
Comments: Any person or organization may propose electoral reforms. However, it is the entitlement of the Legislature (House of Representatives) to pass Bills on all matters. All bills must be assented by the Governor-General.
Source: C: Sec. 55.
Verified: 2004/10/27
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88 (13): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: According to a constitutional provision: In the exercise of its functions, the Commission shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other person or authority and shall subject to the provisions of this Constitution, act in accordance with the Representation of the People Act or any other law, rule or regulation relating to elections. The Elections and Boundaries Department through the Chief Elections Officer, reports to the Commission and to a Minister of Government. The Department also reports to a Minister of Government.
Source: Section 88, Constitution
Part I, Representation of the People Act
Verified: 2003/11/25
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature d . A national government department
Comments: The Boundaries and Elections Department is part of the Ministry of Public Service, which submits its budget to the Ministry of Finance for it to be approved by the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 115: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 66: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
e . Another organ within the national government
Comments: The Auditor-General.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 120: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: For a term of five years. The Elections and Boundaries Commission is composed of one Chairman and four other members.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88 (5): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: 5 (‘There shall be an Elections and Boundaries Commission which shall consist of a Chairman and four other members who shall be persons of integrity and high national standing.’)
Source: Section 88(2), Constitution
Verified: 2004/10/27
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
c . Mixed
Comments: The Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) is not subject to the direction or control of any other person or authority, while the Electoral and Boundaries Department—which reports to the Ministry of the Public Service and the EBC—is responsible for the day-to-day administration and all phases of the electoral process.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 10 & 11: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The Elections and Boundaries Commission is composed of 5 members, a Chairman and four other members who shall be persons of integrity and high national standing.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Sections 48 & 88: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
c . Combination of partisanship and expertise
Comments: The chairman and two other members of the Elections and Boundaries Commission shall be appointed by the Governor-General, acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister given after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition, and the remaining two members shall be appointed by the Governor-General acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister given with the concurrence of the Leader of the Opposition.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State b . Head of Government d . Opposition
Comments: The EMB members are appointed by the Governor General with the advice of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 88: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Elections and Boundaries Department.
Source: Election and Boundaries Department’s web page: https://elections.gov.bz/the-department/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments:
Source: Election and Boundaries Department’s web page: https://elections.gov.bz/the-department/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source: Election and Boundaries Department’s web page: https://elections.gov.bz/the-department/
Verified: 2025/03/24
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 92 (a): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence
Comments: To register within a division, the citizen must have resided there for at least 2 months. Citizens of any Commonwealth country with a residence of no less than 12 months can register to vote in Belize.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration d . Mental disability h . Other
Comments: The criminal incarceration refers to a sentence of imprisonment exceeding one year. An undischarged bankruptcy accusation is also a disqualification.
Source: EL: 7.
Verified: 2003/11/25
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: Elections and Boundaries Department.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
Election and Boundaries Department’s web page: https://elections.gov.bz/the-department/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: EL: SS (3 to 6).
Verified: 2004/10/27
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
c . Periodically (or before each election)
Comments:
Source: EL: SS (27).
Verified: 2002/07/09
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office f . Door-to-door registration campaign
Comments:
Source: EL: SS (2 and 6).
Verified: 2002/07/09
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Although not being registered means a person cannot vote.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Section 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: Belize’s Constitution refers to individuals being nominated to be elected as members of the House of Representatives, not to political parties.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Section 3 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: Membership and Composition of the Senate (Amendements) Act No. 39 of 2001.
Verified: 2004/10/27
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
b . Citizenship d . Residence
Comments: The residence should be of at least one year immediately before the date of the nomination. Besides, for a candidate’s nomination to be valid, BZD 200 must be deposited.
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 57: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/
Verified: 2025/03/24
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments: Even though senators are not publicly elected, in order to be appointed they must comply with the same qualifications (and most of the restrictions) applied to the representatives.
Source: Constitution 62.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 62.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration e . Offences against electoral law f . Holding of military office h . Bankruptcy or Insolvency k . Mental health problems n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Comments: The criminal incarceration refers to a sentence that exceeds 12 months. The holding of other offices refers to any duty related to conducting elections, including the electoral register, and to being a member of the police forces.
Source: Constitution 59.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/07/09
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: The registration procedures and provisions refer to individual candidates, regardless of their membership or lack thereof to any political party.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Section 3: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: The nomination paper should be signed by six persons whose names appear on the register of voters for the electoral division concerned. They have to give a deposit of 200 dollars.
Source: Electoral Law: Third Schedule (3 and 5).
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 62.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 62.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
Preliminary Report of the OAS Electoral Observation Mission for the General Elections of
March 12, 2025 in Belize: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-oas-eom-2025-preliminary-report/ ;
International IDEA Political Finance Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=302
Verified: 2025/03/24
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: 68.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: 68.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: There is no public funding in Belize.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
Preliminary Report of the OAS Electoral Observation Mission for the General Elections of
March 12, 2025 in Belize: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-oas-eom-2025-preliminary-report/ ;
International IDEA Political Finance Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=302
Verified: 2025/03/24
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: 68.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Although public funding is the only source of political finance in Belize, it is not regulated.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
Preliminary Report of the OAS Electoral Observation Mission for the General Elections of
March 12, 2025 in Belize: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-oas-eom-2025-preliminary-report/ ;
International IDEA Political Finance Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=302
Verified: 2025/03/24
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: 68.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: The regulations that the minister may make on this matter according to the law are related to individual candidates.
Source: Electoral Law: 68.
Verified: 2006/04/12
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
i . Other
Comments: It depends on the regulations made by the minister for each election.
Source:
Verified: 2002/07/09
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: No provisions in electoral law.
Source:
Verified: 2002/07/09
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) f . Same ballot papers used nationwide h . Party symbols in color l . No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names r . Other
Comments: The party symbols are printed in color only if decided by the EMB. Each ballot should have a number printed in the back.
Source: Electoral Law: TS (15).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution: 62.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
c . Special counting centres
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Sections 27 & 29: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand s . Copies of results are provided to party agents
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: TS (29).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The counting process takes place at the corresponding counting center at district level, where the elected candidate is declared. Thus, there is no need to consolidate the results at any other level.
Source: Electoral Law: TS (33).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
b . District level
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: 16.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
h . Other
Comments: The returning officer at each counting center is entitled to declare the elected candidate, once the counting process has finished, and then make a return to the Chief Elections Officer, who has to publish all return in the Gazzete.
According to the law, if only one candidate is nominated in an electoral division, the returning officer shall immediately declare him/her elected. No elections need to be held.
Source: Electoral Law: TS (33 and 3).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: The counting is made at counting centers, and there is no need to transport any polling results to any other place in order to make them available to the public.
Source: Electoral Law: TS (33 and 3).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: TS (33 and 3).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request f . Other
Comments: During the counting, a request can be made to the returning officer for a recount or to recheck any figures recorded, but the returning officer may refuse to do so if in his/her opinion the request is unreasonable. Besides, the returning officer may, at his/her discretion, recount or direct the recount when he/she is not satisfied with the accuracy of the previous count.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Sections 29 (2 & 3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: TS (29).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
c . Local Election Management body
Comments: The returning officer at electoral division level conducts the recount.
Source: Electoral Law: TS (29).
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
a . hours:
Comments: a) 4 hours.
The Returning Officer's public declaration at the end of count for a division is official.
Source: Elections and Boundaries Department, Election 2003 Report.
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: There is no allocation of free broadcast time or free printed advertisement space to political parties.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Political Finance Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=302
Verified: 2025/03/24
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments: A debate was organised in 2015 by The San Pedro Sun and Reef TV, but it was between those contesting for Area Representative of Belize Rural South.
Source: "Belize Rural North Candidates Holds Public Debate”: https://edition.channel5belize.com/belize-rural-north-candidates-holds-public-debate/
“Belize Rural South Standard Bearers participate in debate ahead of general election”: https://www.sanpedrosun.com/politics-and-government/2025/03/07/belize-rural-south-standard-bearer-participate-in-debate-ahead-of-general-election/
“Belize Rural South Standard Bearers participate in historic debates”: http://www.sanpedrosun.com/politics-and-government/2015/10/29/belize-rural-south-standard-bearers-participate-in-historic-debates/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Although an amount could be set through regulations on the matter.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Political Finance Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=302
Verified: 2025/03/24
Direct Democracy
DD001
Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
Name and Title: Carlos Navarro
Job Title: Director of Electoral Studies
Organisation: Federal Electoral Institute
Contact Address. Viaducto Tlalpan 100, Arenal Tepepan, Mexico City, 14610
Telephone: (5255) 5628-4234
Facsimile: (5255) 5655-7012
Email: [email protected]
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/08/21
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
Recall Law: “Recall of Elected Representatives Act, Chapter 9:01”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-recall-of-elected-representatives-act-2020/
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”, Section 2 (1 a, c & d): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”, Section 2 (1 b): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 68: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 68: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=309
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 59 (2 f): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Recall Law: “Recall of Elected Representatives Act, Chapter 9:01”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-recall-of-elected-representatives-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/13
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms
Verified: 2005/10/13
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1981 Constitution, updated through 1988 reforms.
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments: A simple majority is needed to decide the referendum.
Source: Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
Recall Law: “Recall of Elected Representatives Act, Chapter 9:01”, Section 5A: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-recall-of-elected-representatives-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
b . Only other issues than constitutional changes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Belize Constitution, Chapter 4”, Section 69: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-constitution-2022/ ;
Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”, Section 2: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”, Section 2 (1 b): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
Recall Law: “Recall of Elected Representatives Act, Chapter 9:01”, Section 3 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-recall-of-elected-representatives-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" ,(2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
Verified: 2009/08/21
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" ,(2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
Verified: 2009/08/21
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/07/09
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Comments: Staff employed in an essential service (including policemen, electoral officers and assistants of the electoral officer) in a division other than the one where they are registered and members of the defence forces may vote by proxy.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Section 18 & 19: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
f . Diplomatic staff
Comments: It is limited to the persons employed outside Belize in any Belizean Embassy, High Commission, Diplomatic Mission or Consulate, including their spouses and dependents.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Section 19: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
d . By proxy
Comments: It is limited to the persons employed outside Belize in any Belizean Embassy, High Commission, Diplomatic Mission or Consulate, including their spouses and dependents.
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Section 19: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source: EL: 8 and TS (18 and 19).
Verified: 2004/10/27
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: EL: 8 and TS (18 and 19).
Verified: 2004/10/27
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: EL: 8 and TS (18 and 19).
Verified: 2004/10/27
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The law does not set forth any specific provision. According to the law, each electoral division may be subdivided into such number of polling areas as the Chief Elections Officer deems necessary, with the approval of the Commission. When more than one polling station is established the returning officer shall divide the register of electors into as many separate parts as there are polling divisions.
Source: EL: TS (10 and 17).
Verified: 2004/10/27
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9”, Schedule III, Section 15, 21 (9): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-representation-of-the-people-act-2020/
Verified: 2025/03/24
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