BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – Government and several other stakeholders are condemning acts of femicide as they express “profound sorrow and outrage” at the deaths of a mother and her young son during the early hours of Monday morning.
Femicide is defined as an intentional killing with a gender-related motivation. It is different from homicide, where the motivation may not be gender-related.
Police are investigating the deaths of Angelita Majana and her young son, Tishan Godoy, who “tragically lost their lives” in the fire that occurred in the Orange Walk District, north-west of here.
Two other people, Miguel Novelo and Shadia Majana, continue to receive medical care after surviving the fire.
The Ministry of the Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management has since commended law enforcement authorities for “their swift action in detaining the accused arsonist and acknowledges the tireless efforts of the National Fire Service and all first responders who assisted at the scene”.
In a joint statement, the Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, and the National Women’s Commission said, “preliminary investigations indicate that this was a deliberate act of domestic violence, an appalling case of femicide.
“This horrific event is a painful reminder of the persistent and devastating impact of gender-based violence in Belize. Femicide, the most extreme form of violence against women, must be recognized, condemned, and urgently addressed. Violence within our homes and communities can no longer be accepted or ignored. Every woman and child deserves to live in safety, dignity, and peace,” they added.
They said as national bodies charged with advancing gender equality and the protection of families, “we stand united in our commitment to action” and that “efforts are ongoing to strengthen Belize’s legislative and institutional frameworks to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
“There is continued advocacy for the formal recognition of femicide in Belizean law. Ending violence against women and children is not the responsibility of the government alone; it requires a collective national response.”
The stakeholders said that they are calling on community leaders, village councils, educators, youth organizations, civil society, and faith-based groups “to join us in building a culture of zero tolerance for violence.
“Change begins with awareness, accountability, and the courage to speak out and intervene. Through collaboration with local NGOs, shelters, and advocacy organizations, we continue to expand access to services, strengthen community networks, and promote education and prevention at every level.
“Together, we must ensure that no life is lost to violence and that survivors receive the protection and support they deserve,” they said, urging the public to contact them or the nearest police station if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence.
“Help is available; no one should suffer in silence,” they added.
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