Joseph Elijio Officially Introduced as San Pedro Mayoral Candidate as UDP Unveils Municipal Slate

The United Democratic Party (UDP) unveiled its nine mayoral candidates for the March 2027 municipal elections on September 29th, including Joseph “Joe” Elijio as its candidate for San Pedro Town. Party leader Tracy Panton led the presentation, which introduced candidates for municipalities across Belize.
Held under the campaign theme “911, It’s a National Emergency,” the event highlighted the party’s concerns about rising living costs, public safety, deteriorating infrastructure, and unreliable municipal services. Candidates introduced themselves and outlined their priorities as the UDP began its campaign ahead of next year’s elections.

The UDP’s mayoral slate comprises Jacqueline Willoughby for Belize City; Isidoro “Richie” Galvez for Belmopan; Earl Trapp for San Ignacio and Santa Elena; Dwayne Sampson for Dangriga; Joseph Elijio for San Pedro; Roberto Lopez for Corozal Town; Leonard Carballo for Orange Walk Town; Franklin Polonio for Punta Gorda; and Yusef Guerra for Benque Viejo del Carmen.
During the unveiling, Panton said the campaign theme reflected the urgency of concerns facing Belizean families and communities. She said the party’s candidates would prioritize transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management. “Our UDP candidates stand for clean and transparent governance, published priorities, regular reporting, and responsible management of public funds,” Panton stated.
The party had previously introduced several candidates, including Elijio, who had publicly questioned San Pedro Town Council spending and development plans.
At the launch, Elijio highlighted his experience serving three consecutive terms under former Mayor Elsa Paz. He said leadership required responsibility and cooperation with residents, rather than simply holding a title or position. He pledged to work with the community to address its concerns.

Other candidates also outlined their approaches to municipal leadership. San Ignacio and Santa Elena Mayor Earl Trapp, who is seeking a fifth consecutive term, emphasized continuity and service. He said residents had “consistently placed their trust in our leadership” because the council had “remained present on the ground working day in and day out.”
Belize City candidate Jacqueline Willoughby, an attorney, pledged “a new standard of leadership” and an “honest city hall,” emphasizing financial transparency and public oversight.
Belmopan candidate Galvez said his team was developing proposals that included business incentives, improved refuse collection, infrastructure maintenance, and additional spaces for young people.
The candidates are expected to campaign in their respective communities over the coming months. In San Pedro, Elijio’s campaign is expected to address issues he previously raised about the council’s 2026 prospectus, environmental management, and local development as he seeks to unseat incumbent People’s United Party (PUP) Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Nuñez.
The UDP currently holds four of the country’s 67 municipal seats.