The Court of Appeals handed down its split decision on the Mayan Land rights case a week ago, and on Monday The Toledo Alcaldes Association gathered community members and leaders to review it. According to a press release, over 300 leaders from all the Maya villages in Toledo converged at the Julian Cho Technical High School near Punta Gorda to digest the decision.
And today, have come out with their collective position. A release from the group says, they are pleased that the court has reaffirmed their right to own their lands. It adds, quote,
"With this fourth favourable ruling in nine years, we are confident going forward that our land rights are clearly and firmly established."
But, the statement also says they are quote,
"disappointed that the court failed to understand the discrimination and harm the government has subjected us to by denying the validity of our customary rights for decades,"
end quote.
It adds that the Leaders were also deeply apprehensive about the section of the decision that absolves government from protecting those rights and titling Maya lands. A unanimous endorsement was given to appeal that aspect of the decision to the Caribbean Court of Justice.
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