By Belize Live News Staff: Leader of the Opposition Shyne Barrow has criticized the People’s United Party (PUP) for its members walking out of the Special Senate Select Committee (SSSC) hearings. Barrow expressed his disapproval, calling the move inconsistent with the principles of transparency and accountability that the government should uphold.
Barrow specifically condemned the actions of Cabinet Secretary Stuart Leslie and Minister of State for Finance Chris Coye, who walked out of the hearings alongside other key government officials. According to Barrow, their departure sent a negative signal about their willingness to engage in transparent governance and answer questions on matters of national concern.
He pointed to previous Senate inquiries held under the UDP administration, where officials answered difficult questions rather than avoiding them. Barrow argued that by walking out, the PUP was undermining the process and diminishing the trust of the Belizean people, who expect clarity and honesty from their government.
Barrow also urged the chair of the committee, along with its social partners, to pay close attention to what the walkout represents. He stressed that the inquiry process was essential for uncovering truth and accountability, not a political charade.
The UDP has long held that the SSSC’s role is to answer pressing questions about corruption and malfeasance affecting the country. Barrow’s remarks add to the ongoing tension between the UDP and PUP, as the opposition continues to criticize the government’s handling of transparency and governance issues.
