And if GOB does decide to proceed with the monopoly it's going to require a few policy shifts and a stamp of approval coming from the National Assembly. But the Prime Minister says no approval is needed from the National Assembly, but instead only a change in legislation that protects consumers. The senators chimed in that he can act on his own, the only thing is whether it will be legal:
Kevin Herrera, Business Senator
"42-4 is very, very clear in terms of how far they can go. And you cannot do anything."
"No player can do anything that significantly lessens that competition. If they do, then they're violating the act."
Janelle Chanona, NGO Senator
"SI has changed regulations. To change a substantive act, I believe you do have to go to the House of Representatives."
Glenfied Dennison, Labour Senator
"They teach us in law school that you could do anything you want, right? The question is whether it's lawful and so that's how I will answer your question Marisol, the Prime Minister is correct, he can do it."
"I think that is the intention. And this is what the people of Belize need to understand. That once the ink has already dried and monies has already been transferred, no court in this country can then go back and say to media, give back Smart. Reverse that. Digi will be then be too big to fail, to be penalized - you are taxing yourself? So, when you then come and say, oh, you all did that and it was illegal, the remedy then would just be, [slap on wrist] pay the fine."
