By Belize Live News Staff: The battle for control of the United Democratic Party (UDP) escalated yesterday as Shyne Barrow, recognized by many as the party’s de facto leader, brought the dispute to the High Court. Barrow’s legal team, led by attorney Immanuel Williams, filed a claim against UDP members Tracy Taegar Panton and former Secretary General Phillip Griffith Bailey.
The lawsuit seeks a court declaration affirming Barrow’s leadership and an order preventing Panton from occupying or representing herself as trustee of the UDP headquarters. Barrow also demands an injunction to stop Panton and her associates from interfering with UDP property or presenting herself as the party leader.
Additionally, Barrow is pursuing damages for what he claims is Panton’s “unlawful possession” of the headquarters, arguing that her actions disrupt the party’s operations and threaten its democratic role ahead of the upcoming General Elections.
The court filing alleges that Panton’s continued occupation of the UDP headquarters risks operational paralysis, emphasizing the urgency for judicial intervention. The virtual hearing is expected to set the tone for the UDP’s leadership moving forward.
As of now, the High Court has yet to issue a ruling. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding legal drama.
