BDF Soldier Raises Concerns Over Welfare; Ministry Clarifies No Salary Cuts Implemented

A Belize Defence Force (BDF) soldier issued a heartfelt plea highlighting challenges faced by members of the Force on social media last week, including issues of health care and recent adjustments to their salaries.

In the open letter, the soldier described serving with pride for over a decade but said that recent years have been marked by “pain, suffering, and neglect.” He expressed frustration over the lack of adequate medical care after being injured on duty, claiming that while deductions are made monthly for the BDF Benevolent Fund, benefits are not equally accessible to the rank and file.

The soldier further alleged that soldiers are left to eat after senior officers, and that meals often lack the nutrition necessary for men and women serving in demanding environments. He also criticized recent changes in salaries, which he interpreted as a pay cut, saying it has made it difficult for soldiers to meet their financial obligations in a time of rising inflation.

Despite these concerns, the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security has firmly denied that salaries have been reduced. In a statement issued today, the Ministry said that “the salaries of members of the Belize Defence Force have not been cut” and explained that the adjustments were part of a salary alignment exercise.

According to the Ministry, the process was undertaken to ensure that all salaries, increments, and promotions are properly aligned with the approved 2019 pay scale, following a review with the Ministry of Finance and the Treasury Department. It added that no soldier will be required to repay past overpayments that may have occurred due to administrative errors.

The Ministry also pointed out that, effective May 2024, all BDF members began receiving two new allowances — the Jungle and Maritime Allowance and the Bush Allowance. In July 2025, every member of the Force received a retroactive payment of $2,250 to cover backdated allowances, which are now part of monthly pay.

The Ministry emphasized that the adjustment is an administrative measure made to promote fairness and transparency, not a reduction in benefits. It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of BDF personnel and announced that further improvements to the terms and conditions of service are being planned.

While the Ministry’s clarification addresses the salary concerns, the soldier’s appeal highlights deeper frustrations within the ranks about morale, support, and working conditions. The letter ends with a plea: “Protect us, so that we can continue to protect you.”