Dangriga, Belize – August 1, 2025
On Friday, August 1st, the newly elected executive members of the National Garifuna Council (NGC) hosted a meet and greet in Dangriga Town to introduce themselves, outline their vision for the next two years, and listen to the concerns of the community.
The event started on a hopeful note, but the room quickly turned into a space of hard truths and unfiltered questions.Many Dangriga residents expressed that they have lost confidence in the NGC, citing concerns about transparency, the influence of the Cayetano family, and the organization’s voting process.
Despite the tension, the new executive members remained optimistic and committed to restoring faith in the NGC. They made it clear that they are not giving up on the organization or the people it represents.
Among those who spoke was Cyril Uruwei Garcia, the independent candidate who made history in the 2025 general elections. Garcia issued a call to action:
“All Garinagu should become active members of the NGC. Constructively criticize, recommend changes, and strengthen the organization from the inside—for the benefit of all Garinagu.”
He also pledged to become a paying and active member himself, leading by example in his call for collective action. Garcia further urged residents to shift their political mindset, encouraging them to vote for the collective good of the community rather than individual gain.
The evening ended with a renewed sense of challenge and responsibility. While doubts linger, the NGC’s new leadership left with a clear message: the community is watching, and the time for meaningful engagement is now.
For those who missed the event, Friday’s meet and greet—and the issues surrounding it—will be discussed in depth on the next episode of Dangriga Unmuted, airing live this Wednesday at 8:30PM on UBAFU TV with host Cyril Uruwei and co-host Ifasina Efunyemi.
UBAFU Media will continue to monitor the progress of the NGC and the voices of the people as this new executive takes on its two-year term.
