Friday, May 9, 2025 — Belize marked a significant moment in its democratic process today as the inaugural sitting of the newly elected House of Representatives took place outside the Sir Edney Cain Building in Belmopan.
Though the National Assembly continues to be temporarily housed at the George Price Centre, the ceremonial event was held in front of the Sir Edney Cain Building, offering a formal and symbolic start to the 2025-2030 parliamentary session. The natural open-air setting provided a unique backdrop, blending tradition with a refreshing sense of accessibility and public presence.
Members of the House, government officials, and invited guests gathered under clear skies to witness the official start of the legislative session. The program included the swearing-in of representatives, senate members, the election of the Speaker of the House, the election of a president for the senate and the formal recognition of the Leader of the Opposition—all carried out with full parliamentary procedure.
The event was well attended, with a respectful crowd observing from a distance. Many took the opportunity to engage with the historic occasion, including students, community groups, and members of the media.
While the proceedings were largely ceremonial, they marked the first official gathering of the new House and set the tone for the term ahead. The Sir Edney Cain Building, though not the official home of Parliament, served as a symbolic location befitting the occasion due to its administrative significance.
The ceremony concluded smoothly, signalling a confident start to the new legislative period. It also underscored Belize’s commitment to democratic continuity—even in temporary settings, and the importance of visible, public-facing governance.