2 weeks ago
6
Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton has raised concerns about what she describes as a growing sense of disquiet among the Belizean public, accusing the government of inadequate communication and a lack of transparency on national issues. Speaking publicly, Panton said the administration of Prime Minister John Briceño has failed to consistently and clearly inform citizens about key decisions and developments affecting the country. According to the Opposition Leader, this approach risks eroding public trust and confidence in governance. Panton argued that effective leadership requires open engagement and timely disclosure, particularly on matters of national importance. She said Belizeans deserve clear explanations and regular updates from those in authority, rather than learning of major issues through speculation or delayed statements.
Tracy Panton, UDP Leader: “There is a growing disquiet in this country. And there are many people who have reached out to me, very important partners in our development who have reached out to me who continue to express concern. And I think that would be a natural step. We have to hold this government to account. And holding to account doesn’t necessarily mean that you oppose but making sure that they put forward the information that we need to make informed decisions for ourselves and for this country. You know, there are lots of initiatives that the present Briceño administration have put forward but we don’t have the information. So we can’t say that we are in agreement if there is information lacking. For example the safe third country agreement, we just don’t have the relevant information for us as members of the opposition to wholeheartedly say, yes we support this. And we are going to insist that the government is transparent and accountable to the Belizean people. Often times, brother Fonso, in the National Assembly, you would hear one of the ministers stand up and say, “well if you wanted the information come see me.”, I don’t want the information for Tracy Panton. The people of this country deserve to have the information. It is the people’s money. And while the people gave you a mandate, it did not give you, they did not give you a mandate to act unilaterally and in contradiction to the well-being of our country and our citizens. That is not the mandate you were given.”
The Opposition Leader emphasized that transparency is not optional but a fundamental pillar of democratic governance. She maintained that clearer communication would help ease public concern and foster greater accountability. The government has previously stated that it remains committed to transparency and public engagement, pointing to press briefings, official statements, and parliamentary processes as avenues through which information is shared. As political debate continues, the issue of government communication and openness remains a focal point, with differing views on whether current efforts meet the expectations of the Belizean public./
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