By: Omar Silva, Editor. National Perspective Belize  

DIGITAL EDITION

Belize City:  Thursday 4th October 2024

In the midst of the ongoing impasse between Belize Sugar Industries Limited (B.S.I.) and the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association (B.S.C.F.A.), accusations of a disconnect between Prime Minister John Briceño and the issues affecting the Northern Caucus have emerged. The situation has escalated to the point where concerns are being raised about the Prime Minister's understanding of the crisis.

Leader of the Opposition, Shyne Barrow, has expressed his view that the Prime Minister has been out of touch with the situation long before it reached its current state. Barrow asserts that he had advance knowledge of the unfolding events, suggesting that there were clear signs of trouble brewing within the sugar industry.

"He's so disconnected that obviously there is a crisis," Barrow states emphatically. "I knew days before what was happening. I knew that everything that was happening I had intelligence on. There is no way that the prime minister can plead ignorance, as ignorant as many of us may think he is and as foolish as we may think he is, he has to know better."

Barrow goes on to highlight the Prime Minister's perceived detachment from the issue, citing the departure of key members from his cabinet, including the Attorney General and Eamon Courtenay. According to Barrow, these departures signal a significant crisis within the government.

He continues, "So this is a sign of the end of times and the continued disconnect that he did not know that he had to stay put and solve this issue, an issue that we have been dealing with every year since they took office."

Barrow's comments underscore the frustration and disappointment felt by many in the Northern Caucus, who had hoped for a more effective resolution of the long-standing issues faced by cane farmers. The disconnect between the Prime Minister and the concerns of the people in the Northern region is becoming increasingly evident, raising questions about the government's ability to address critical challenges in this vital industry.

As the impasse persists, the need for effective leadership and communication between all stakeholders remains paramount. The ongoing dispute not only threatens the livelihoods of cane farmers but also puts into question the government's ability to respond to and resolve complex issues in a timely and efficient manner. The situation underscores the urgency of finding a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of the Northern Caucus and the sustainability of the sugar industry.