The landmark Caleb Orozco decision, in which the Supreme Court has legalized gay sex made headlines on all Jamaica electronic newscasts last night, and is being picked up news outlets all over the world.
Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin's decision from yesterday was to simply make an amendment to Section 53 of the criminal code by adding the clause, "This section shall not apply to consensual sexual acts between adults."
It's a small change with a big meaning, and it provides the first foothold for gay rights in Belize. And not surprisingly, the churches are completely against it.
We spoke to the senior leaders of the National Evangelical Association of Belize yesterday, and the other group of evangelicals, the Belize Association of Evangelical Churches sent out a press release this afternoon.
It says, quote, "...The Belize Association of Evangelical Churches received his ruling with profound disappointment. While the BAEC respects the ruling of the Supreme Court, we view the decision as further confirmation of the moral decline of our beloved Belize." End quote.
It concludes, "The BAEC will be holding consultations during the next few days with the view of providing further information regarding the complete position and actions to be taken in view of this immoral decision."
The Government has not given any reaction to the decision but Opposition Leader John Briceno took to Facebook this evening and said, quote, " ...The position of the People's United Party is that Belize is a country governed by Laws and as a responsible opposition, we respect the ruling of the Supreme Court." End Quote.
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