The Two Faces of Justice

City of Belmopan, July 3, 2008 -  Today the public discussion continues in the case of three children who burned to death in their home in the San Martin Area of Belmopan last week Thursday. Their father, Francisco Hernandez, a single parent, left them home at around 11:00pm when he went to another house to make tamales which he was to sell at the market the following day. All reports indicate that the family had just returned from church, when he put the children to bed and left on his errand. A candle had been left lit in the home, which had no electricity, and speculation is that the fire was caused by the candle falling over and perhaps igniting the foam mattress on which the children slept. All three - 10 year old Francisca, 7 year old Heidi and 6 year old Nahim, were found burned beyond recognition near the front door of the home. Allegations are that the father locked the door with a padlock when he left, and the children were not able to exit the home. A medical examination has confirmed the cause of death as calcinations due to dry heat.

A source in the AG’s Ministry reports that immediately upon arrival difficulties started to arise. Barrow wanted to give instructions, but AG Elrington countermanded them. Longsworth tried to balance these two without success. Reports are that when she gave advice which was not political enough she was reprimanded. In fact, a few specifics were shared with the BELIZE TIMES.

What has come to pass is an unprecedented and almost unbearable rise in the cost of living. Fuel is more than $2.00 more per gallon than it was just three months ago. Industries across the country are suffering because of the skyrocketing price of diesel. Butane is on the rise, causing hardships in households all over Belize. And if that wasn’t enough, the price of most goods, basic and luxury, have gone through the roof.

The 2008 hurricane season started on the 1st June as it does every year. This was no surprise. This was known to all Belizeans. The government led by Dean Barrow was aware of this like all of us – we think. But Barrow and his Government are responsible for the welfare of the people everyday and more so during the hurricane season.