By Belize Live News Staff: Dr. Osmond Martinez of The People’s United Party (PUP) has triumphed in the Toledo East by-election, garnering 3,268 votes. His main opponent, Dennis Williams from the United Democratic Party (UDP), secured 1,169 votes, while the People’s National Party (PNP) candidate, Wil Maheia, received 202 votes. There were 44 spoiled ballots.
Dr. Martinez, expressing gratitude for his victory, emphasized that his success extended beyond his home area of Bella Vista, which had the highest voter turnout. He highlighted support from Punta Gorda, Monkey River, and other regions as pivotal to his win.
Prime Minister John Briceño commented on the election results, expressing excitement about the inroads made by the PUP in traditional UDP strongholds like Monkey River and Barranco, in addition to maintaining dominance in Punta Gorda Town and Bella Vista. Despite these gains, Briceño dismissed the notion of an early general election. He asserted that the party’s popularity remains strong four years into its term, evidenced by the by-election results and the municipal election victories, excluding San Ignacio.
Addressing concerns about allegations of voter bribery, Briceño emphasized that elections are fundamentally about building relationships with voters. He urged PUP candidates to continue their diligent work, aiming for another five-year mandate in the 2025 general elections.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged infrastructural challenges exacerbated by weather and climate change. He noted that Toledo, with nearly twice as many villages as his native Orange Walk District, presents unique logistical hurdles for voter accessibility, which the government is committed to addressing.
