For Opposition Leader Tracy Panton, the State of the Nation Address was just as notable for what Prime Minister John Briceño did not say. While the Prime Minister highlighted his administration’s achievements, Panton says he failed to confront concerns about corruption, mounting pressure within the healthcare system and several other issues affecting Belizeans. She argues that these challenges required more than silence and should have formed part of an honest assessment of the country.
Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition
“There was something that struck me about the Prime Minister’s address, not simple what he said, but also for what he did not say. Where was the serious discussion about corruption, transparency and accountability? Where was the response to questions being raised about unexplained wealth and the conduct at senior levels of the public service? While nurses struggle and patients search for medication, Belizeans have every right to demand accountability from those entrusted with their resources. We deserve answers. What about the new village trade taxes affecting entrepreneurs and small vendors; when they can least afford it. What about parents struggling with the school transportation crisis today while government talks about new GST coming tomorrow. What about the morale of our police officers, men and women being asked to protect us, while many feel under resourced and unsupported. These are not small matter, they are the everyday realities of the Belizeans and a State of the Nation address should confront them.”
As she wrapped up her response, Opposition Leader Tracy Panton moved beyond criticism and offered a series of recommendations aimed at addressing the growing concerns of Belizeans.
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