EDITORIAL

By: Omar Silva

Editor: National Perspective Bz DIGITAL 2024

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

Belize City: Sunday, 27th October 2024

With the 2025 General Election looming, the United Democratic Party (UDP) finds itself at a crossroads. The dispute over the alleged “constructive resignation” of Hon. Tracy Panton and Hon. Patrick Faber underscores not just a legal dilemma, but a deeper struggle for unity and integrity within one of Belize’s primary political forces. The question now is whether the UDP leadership will choose to unify or continue down a path of internal conflict that could ultimately cost them public trust—and with it, electoral relevance.

The Stakes Are High for the UDP—and for Belize

At the heart of the issue is UDP Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Moses "Shyne" Barrow’s attempt to declare Panton and Faber’s constructive resignation. But while Section 59(2)(e) of Belize’s Constitution is cited, the ambiguity surrounding this section reveals more questions than answers. The UDP leadership’s reliance on legal gray areas rather than solid principles risks an outcome that weakens the UDP, painting it as a party willing to prioritize power over democratic expression.

And the timing couldn’t be worse. As Belizeans consider their options in the months leading to the election, the UDP should be focused on offering a clear, unified vision for the country. Instead, party members are embroiled in a public standoff that could alienate the very voters they need. The public is watching closely, and every move made in the coming weeks will influence how Belizeans perceive not just individual UDP leaders, but the party as a whole.

A Moment for True Leadership

The UDP’s leadership has a choice: pursue an ambiguous, divisive path that forces members into submission, or set a new standard of openness and cohesion. Now is the time to prove that the UDP values democratic principles, not just party loyalty. Instead of doubling down on “constructive resignation,” the party could strengthen its ranks by engaging in transparent dialogue with dissenting voices and embracing the diversity of thought that democracy demands.

Such a shift would not only improve the party’s internal unity but also send a powerful message to Belizeans: that the UDP can transcend personal power plays for the greater good of the country. This is the kind of decisive leadership Belize needs at this critical juncture.

A Call for Resolution

Belizeans deserve a government-in-waiting that reflects unity, accountability, and a commitment to democratic ideals. For Barrow and the UDP, there’s still time to change course and rally around common goals. We urge the UDP leadership to put the interests of the nation above intra-party disputes, to abandon the tactic of “constructive resignation,” and to focus on showing Belizeans that the UDP is prepared to lead with integrity.

Belize’s democracy depends on the willingness of our leaders to uphold the values they preach, especially when tested. The UDP can emerge stronger from this ordeal, but only if it confronts its internal challenges with transparency and respect for democratic principles. The time for clarity and unity is now. Belize is watching, and so are the voters who will decide the party’s future come election day.