New Poll Shows 56 Percent of Respondents Disapprove of PM’s Performance

Last night we told you about the results of a new opinion survey by political analyst Dr. Philip Castillo as it relates to Dangriga Area Representative Dr. Louis Zabaneh. Tonight, we look at what respondents had to say about Prime Minister John Briceño, how he reacted to the polls.  According to the poll, just twenty-one-point eight percent of respondents approved of the Prime Minister’s performance, while fifty-six-point four percent expressed disapproval and another twenty-one point eight percent said they were unsure.  The study suggests much of the dissatisfaction appears linked to economic concerns, with many residents blaming government leadership for the cost of living, even though official figures show inflation in the area remains relatively low. Some respondents also described the proposed acquisition of telecommunications company Speednet by BTL as controversial, saying it could be influencing political opinion locally.  Prime Minister Briceño, however, says the results should not be over-interpreted. He noted that Belize operates under a parliamentary system in which voters elect an area representative, not a Prime Minister directly, and rejected the idea that the telecommunications deal is seriously damaging his standing in Dangriga. He added that during his visits to the Culture Capital he continues to receive strong public support.

Reporter: Do you believe that you are losing political influence because this deal is on the table ? 

John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “Well first of all remember that’s not something that the government is doing, it’s something that a BTL is trying to find a way how they could continue to increase revenues and increase profits but that is for something that’s that’s separate from the government and that that would work its way out so I’m not concerned about it. That’s okay I mean you should go and come with me when I I go to Dangriga. For the 19th I was there and everybody was greeting me very very warmly. I am confident in the work that we’re doing but I think we can talk next year we have municipal elections I think that’s the best gauge whether people believe that the PUP as a government if we’re doing a good job or not.”

The poll carries a margin of error of roughly seven percent and is not predictive of an election outcome, but it suggests the Dangriga seat could become competitive if undecided voters shift their position in future campaigns.