Municipal Election Race Heats Up as Potential Candidates Begin Campaigning

With Belize’s next municipal elections still months away, the political season is already beginning to intensify as potential candidates across the country step forward to signal their intentions ahead of the March 2027 polls.  Over the past several weeks, social media platforms have become flooded with campaign graphics, slogans, and early endorsements as aspiring mayoral candidates and town council hopefuls begin positioning themselves for what is expected to be a highly competitive municipal election cycle. In San Ignacio and Santa Elena, names like Kimberly Price, Aaron Mai, and Sandra Lanza have already emerged publicly, each promoting different visions for the twin towns while seeking early support from residents. In Punta Gorda Town, Carlos Galvez and long-serving mayor Rigo Vellos have both has appeared in campaign-style promotions, while in Corozal, Shajarie Rogers has launched her bid under the banner of “Fresh Vision, Proven Competence.”  She will be looking to unseat Rigo Vellos  In San Pedro Town, attention has also begun shifting toward a possible mayoral slate headed by Wally Nunez under the People’s United Party banner. Belize Rural South Area Representative Andre Perez has already publicly declared his support behind the proposed slate, saying he believes the team is capable of continuing the island’s development and growth.

Andre Perez, BRS Area Representative: “He has made up his post and we have had a meeting with the council. I’ve told them that I’m supporting them. I’m not too sure if everybody’s running, but I do know that they’re open to apply. Everybody’s open. Anybody’s interested to run for the People’s United Party are free to apply. I cannot stop that what I’m saying is that I’m endorsing that team. I’m talking about endorsing the mayor, of course, we have worked together but everybody’s free to point. But the mayor has expressed his intention to seek a third re-election and I’m supporting him.”

Meanwhile, in Belize City, current Deputy Mayor Eluide Miller has quietly soft-launched his campaign efforts focused on being the next Mayor.  Political insiders have also pointed to businessman Alan Pollard as another individual reportedly interested in entering the race for Belize City Mayor.  At the same time, there has also been public speculation surrounding Belize City Administrator Dr. Candice Pitts. However, Pitts has since told Love News that while she appreciates the encouragement being expressed publicly, her current focus remains on her responsibilities at City Hall.  In a statement provided to Love News, Dr. Pitts said, quote, “I am grateful for the confidence and encouragement being expressed by members of the public and by my family members in particular. However, my present focus is fully on my responsibilities as City Administrator and ensuring that we effectively serve the residents of Belize City. Any future political decisions would be considered carefully and at the appropriate time.”  End of quote.  The People’s United Party has meanwhile formally opened its application process for individuals interested in contesting the 2027 municipal elections across the country’s nine municipalities. According to the party, applications will open on June 1 through to June 19.  It is interesting to note the optics with no one lining up to run under other political party banners.