By: Omar Silva

Editor: NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE BZ, DIGITAL 2024

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

Belize City, Thursday 3rd October 2024

Belize at 43: The Forgotten Promises of Independence

As Belize marks its 43rd anniversary of political independence, we stand at a critical crossroads. Since gaining independence, we have witnessed nine changes in government, alternating between the People's United Party (PUP) and the United Democratic Party (UDP). Yet, despite this political back-and-forth, the promises and ideals that fuelled our struggle for self-determination remain unfulfilled.

The vision of our founding father, George Cadle Price, has been distorted. Price envisioned a nation rooted in nationalism, social justice, economic development, and unity—a self-reliant country where every Belizean could prosper. Instead, we are left with a political landscape dominated by corruption, cronyism, and short-term gains. Now, more than ever, Belizeans must awaken and reclaim this nation from the stranglehold of political financiers and self-serving leaders.

A Legacy Betrayed: What Happened to Price's Vision?

George Cadle Price’s relentless efforts to secure political independence for Belize spanned 31 years. His work was not just about sovereignty and territorial integrity; it was about building a nation where the people’s welfare came first. Today, his legacy is invoked by our leaders, but only in name. In reality, these same leaders have abandoned Price’s ideals, trading away his vision for a quick dollar and political expediency.

For over four decades, both the PUP and UDP have failed to take the necessary steps to industrialize our economy, foster manufacturing, or develop agro-industries that could sustain our people. Instead, they have allowed an extractive political class to flourish, focused on personal enrichment rather than national progress. These politicians have failed to use our natural resources and human capital for the greater good of Belize.

The Collapse of Our Industries: A Grim Reality

Once-thriving industries like citrus, sugar, fisheries, and cottage industries are now shells of their former selves. These industries, which could have served as pillars for Belize's economic independence, have been neglected. Instead of empowering local businesses and fostering innovation, our leaders have chosen the path of dependency—relying on foreign loans and grants that benefit a select few rather than the broader Belizean populace. Today, the cost of doing business in Belize is prohibitive, leaving small enterprises to struggle for survival.

Nine Changes, No Transformation: A Broken Political Cycle

Despite nine government turnovers, there has been no meaningful transformation. Each administration, whether PUP or UDP, has failed to build on the foundations laid by George Cadle Price. Instead, we have witnessed a lack of visionary leadership, with successive governments falling short of promoting the economic self-sufficiency ideals that Price championed. Our politicians have consistently neglected to implement policies that reflect the unique needs of our diverse districts, dismissing the significance of our various ethnic and cultural communities.

Corruption and Political Financiers: The Real Rulers of Belize

At the heart of Belize’s stagnation lies corruption. Political financiers, both local and foreign, have entrenched themselves in the corridors of power. These financiers, who pour money into election campaigns, dictate government policies, ensuring that their business interests are prioritized over the needs of the people. In Belize, politics has become a business—a lucrative one for the political elite but a nightmare for the average citizen.

Brain Drain: A Crisis of Talent and Potential

As if economic stagnation wasn’t enough, Belize is also suffering from a severe brain drain. Our brightest minds, facing limited opportunities at home, are forced to seek better prospects abroad. With a population of under 500,000, Belize simply cannot afford to lose its talented and educated youth. If we continue on this path, we will cripple our nation’s future prospects. Economic prosperity must be felt in the pockets of every Belizean family, or we risk permanently losing the human capital needed to drive our nation forward.

A Call for Conscious Voting: The Path Forward

As we approach the next election, Belizeans must rise to the occasion and become conscious-minded voters. The future of our nation depends on scrutiny and accountability. We can no longer afford to be swayed by empty promises or populist rhetoric. Here are the steps we must take:

1. Demand Transparency and Accountability: Insist that candidates provide clear, detailed plans on how they will address corruption and promote transparency in government dealings.
2. Support Community-Minded Leaders: Elect leaders who have a proven track record of community service, not those who only appear during election campaigns.
3. Promote Economic Self-Sufficiency: Advocate for policies that support local industries, small businesses, and initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and communities.
4. Rekindle Nationalism and Unity: Support leaders who are dedicated to uniting Belize’s diverse ethnic groups and fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose. Unity, as envisioned by George Cadle Price, remains essential for the survival and prosperity of our nation.

A Timely Reflection: 74 Years of the People’s United Party

This past 29th September marked the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's United Party (PUP)—a party that once stood as the driving force behind our independence. Yet, in the 74 years since its inception, the PUP has drifted from the principles it once held dear. Where is the economic transformation that was promised? Where is the commitment to the people? Both the PUP and UDP have lost sight of the national agenda, and it is time for a new generation of conscious voters to reclaim Belize’s destiny.

Conclusion: The Time for Transformational Change Is Now

Belize stands at a pivotal moment. As we reflect on our 43 years of independence, we must recognize that political independence without economic independence is a hollow victory. The future of Belize depends on informed, conscious voting and a renewed commitment to the ideals that George Cadle Price stood for. As citizens, we hold the power to shape our nation’s destiny by electing leaders who embody the true spirit of service, dedication, and nationalism.

Let us honour the legacy of our founding father by making the choices necessary to ensure a prosperous, just, and united Belize. It is time to reject the politics of business and embrace the business of politics, where the well-being of the people is paramount.