By Belize Live News Staff: The Opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) has raised alarm over disturbing reports suggesting that Guatemalan authorities may have crossed into Belizean territory to forcibly remove Belizean citizen Joseph Budna.
In a statement, Leader of the Opposition Tracy Taegar Panton said such actions, if confirmed, amount to a serious violation of Belize’s sovereignty and a threat to democracy, the rule of law, and the safety of Belizean citizens. “Such an incursion cannot and must not go unanswered,” Panton stated.
The UDP stressed that the Government of Belize has a constitutional duty to protect its citizens and called for immediate clarification from the Prime Minister, the Minister of National Security, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The Opposition is demanding to know whether Guatemalan authorities crossed Belize’s border to apprehend Budna, and what steps are being taken to ensure his rights and safety under both Belizean and international law.
“Belizeans cannot be left in the dark when the sanctity of our borders and the dignity of our people are at stake. Our democracy is already fragile, and our sovereignty must never be compromised,” Panton warned.
The UDP emphasized that regardless of personal opinions about Joseph Budna, the principle of protecting Belizean sovereignty and citizens is non-negotiable.
