Politics & Power Struggles: Tensions inside the PUP are bubbling over as Home Affairs Minister Julius Espat and Prime Minister John Briceño trade contrasting messages, with Espat now sounding unsure about taking the permanent Home Affairs role. PUP National Council: The party held its National Party Council amid “shade” from ministers, while Briceño doubled down that he’ll lead the PUP into the 2030 general election and win again in March 2027 municipal polls. Wildlife Spotlight: Belize honored five “Wildlife Heroes” at the Belize Wildlife and Referral Clinic’s 2026 awards. Immigration for Investors: A proposed Investor Residence Program could let qualifying foreigners get residency with a $500,000 investment and 12 months in Belize over three years. Road Tragedies: Police are investigating fatal crashes on the Coastal Road (Ramzi Asaad) and the Hummingbird Highway (Chad Borland), with alcohol believed involved in the latter. Community & Safety: A 15-year-old, Angelique Castillo, is missing; police also charged a waitress in Orange Walk with harm and recovered 1.1 kilos of suspected cannabis in Orange Walk. Nature Protection: The Forest Department warned that illegal mangrove clearing can bring fines up to $25,000 and jail time. Port Update: Port of Belize CEO Arturo “Tux” Vasquez resigned after 14 years; Ian Courtenay will oversee operations while a new CEO is selected. Sports & Culture: Belize lost 2-0 to French Guiana in Nations League B, and the Belize Birding Festival is set for Orange Walk today.