By Belize Live News Staff: The People’s United Party (PUP) has called for a more functional opposition, criticizing the current state of political leadership and urging for a stronger democracy to ensure proper governance. During a recent session, Cayo South Area Representative Julius Espat emphasized the need for the opposition to step up and work toward a more united front. Espat expressed frustration over the lack of participation from the opposition, calling it detrimental to Belize’s democratic process.
Espat highlighted the minimal presence of opposition members and stressed the importance of representing the voices of the Belizean people. According to him, the current situation, with just two active opposition members, fails to hold the government accountable. He insisted that both sides must work together to ensure that all Belizeans are properly represented in the political process.
Prime Minister John Briceño joined the call for better leadership, urging the Leader of the Opposition, Shyne Barrow, to reconsider recent decisions that have impacted parliamentary committees. Briceño emphasized the seriousness of the situation, calling for a more mature and responsible approach from the opposition to improve the functioning of the government.
When the time came to vote on a related motion, most members of the House abstained, leaving only one member, Henry Charles Usher, to cast the single “aye” vote. The abstentions reflect the ongoing tensions and discontent within the political environment.
The PUP’s demands underscore the need for a functional opposition that can contribute to a healthy and balanced democracy, a message that resonates strongly as Belize faces key governance challenges.