In a deal that’s raising eyebrows across Belize, 2.5 acres of coveted beachfront property, once a cherished public space, was sold for a mere $1,000 to John Pollard, a known associate of former UDP Minister Anthony “Boots” Martinez.
The transaction occurred approximately three months before the 2020 general elections, during the tenure of then-Minister of Lands Hugo Patt. Critics argue that the timing and price suggest a “sweetheart deal” benefiting political insiders.
The land, now fenced off and inaccessible to the public, has sparked outrage among Belizeans who recall its former status as a communal beach. Martinez has denied ownership, claiming to work merely as a contractor for Pollard—a claim met with skepticism given their close political ties.
Similar land deals have come under scrutiny. In one case, 1,922 acres in the Duck Run III area were sold for approximately $139 per acre just days before the 2020 elections. The current government attempted to halt the sale, citing legal concerns, but the High Court ruled the agreements binding.
Market comparisons highlight the disparity: a 2.5-acre beachfront lot off the George Price Highway is listed at 300 times more, underscoring the unusually low price of the Pollard transaction.
As public outcry grows, calls for transparency and accountability intensify, with many demanding a thorough investigation into the sale and its implications for public land management in Belize.
