Tag:
united democratic party
Community and Society
Loan Motion for George Price Highway Rehabilitation Approved after Senate Debate
The Senate met on December 16th to debate a $69 million loan motion from the Caribbean Development Bank to rehabilitate the George Price Highway from Belize City to Hattieville. The debate prompted several senators to request additional information on the motion, with particular concern about the loan's total amount, which many described as significant. Despite a lengthy, at times heated, discussion that led to a brief suspension of the sitting, the loan motion was ultimately approved by the Senate.
Politics and Government
UDP outlines reform agenda at first press conference under new leader
On December 9th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held its first press conference in Belize City under the leadership of its newly elected and first female party leader, Honourable Tracy Taegar-Panton. Panton described the gathering as the start of a new chapter for the UDP, outlining a renewed direction and reaffirming the party’s commitment to unity and accountability as the country’s official Opposition. She emphasized that the party plans to take a more active role in scrutinizing the current administration led by the People’s United Party and addressing the urgent issues affecting Belizeans.
Politics and Government
Honorable Tracy Panton Becomes First Female Leader of the UDP
On November 30th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held its fifth national leadership convention since 2020, electing for the first time a female party leader, the Honorable Tracy Panton. The convention also marked another historic milestone with the election of the party’s first female chairperson, Senator Sheena Pitts. The Honorable Hugo Patt remained as First Deputy Party Leader, while Miguel Guerra of Benque Viejo del Carmen was elected Second Deputy Party Leader. Party members now hope the new leadership will guide a rebuilding process following the UDP’s continued struggles since losing the 2020 general election.
Politics and Government
Senator Gabriel Zetina Endorsed as UDP Caretaker for Belize Rural South
On Saturday, September 27th, the United Democratic Party (UDP) convened in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, to officially endorse Senator Honourable Gabriel Zetina as their new caretaker for the Belize Rural South (BRS) constituency. The constituency also includes the island community of Caye Caulker, and several supporters from La Isla Cariñosa traveled to San Pedro for the event held at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium at San Pedro High School.
Community and Society
Senator Gabriel Zetina Donates School Bags and Haircuts to Students
As the new school year approaches, islander and entrepreneur Gabriel Zetina hosted his third annual back-to-school initiative on Saturday, August 23rd, in the San Juan area of San Pedro Town. Zetina, recently appointed as a Senator under the United Democratic Party, distributed school bags with supplies and partnered with Coleman Barbershop to provide free haircuts to primary and high school students.
Government
Senator Gabriel Zetina Challenges National Budget Over Lack of Youth Investment
During the Senate sitting on Friday, May 30th, the national budget for the 2025–2026 fiscal year was debated. Among the contributors was Senator Gabriel Zetina of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Representing the United Democratic Party (UDP), the young senator questioned the government's commitment to Belize’s youth, highlighting that only $500,000 has been allocated for youth programs from the Ministry of Youth’s budget of more than $5 million.
Community and Society
San Pedro Fire Station Receives Two Brand New Water Pumps
The fire station on the island, found on Pescador Drive next to the police station, has received two brand new portable water pumps, courtesy of Senator Gabriel Zetina. The young senator, representing the United Democratic Party, shared that he is committed to aiding his island community and contributing to the improvement of essential services, such as the local fire service.
Politics and Government
The UDP Continues Efforts to Unify; No Clear Leader Yet
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is continuing efforts to move forward amidst internal challenges. The party, which currently holds five seats in the House of Representatives, recently saw the official swearing-in of the Honorable Tracy Panton as the first female Leader of the Opposition. However, according to Panton, the UDP remains without a clear leader following the loss of former party leader Shyne Barrow’s Mesopotamia seat in the March 12th general election. A national convention to elect a new leader is expected but has not yet been scheduled.
