At a time when political debate is growing increasingly bitter, Belizeans gathered on Saturday to remember a leader known for putting service before self. The fifteenth annual wreath-laying ceremony for the Right Honorable George Price brought relatives, government officials and citizens to Lord Ridge Cemetery in Belize City. But the occasion was about more than remembering the man who led Belize to independence. It also renewed discussion about the humility, kindness and political strength that defined Price’s leadership, and whether those qualities still have a place in today’s politics.
Clement Usher
Clement Usher, Relative of George Price
“If we are to continue down the path of this great leader and Prime Minister we must adapt into our lives, the kindness, patients, understanding, humility, but most import, service above self that George Price emanated. Recently I have noticed in the news, even on social media, the horrible and unkind ways that our officials and people who hold high offices speak to or write about each other. Yes, we certainly can agree to disagree but let us do it in the way of George Cadle Price, a little humility will not hurt or kill anyone.”
Prime Minister John Briceño
Prime Minister John Briceño
“But let us not forget, that George Price was leader for forty plus years, not because he was an easy going and soft man, but because he had steel built on him and there were many people buried in the political graveyard that tried to go against him and you don’t always have to be nice to be able to do that for forty plus years. I say that with great humility and admiration for a man that can do that for so long. I certainly have no intentions of doing that for so long. I already served thirty-three years in the National Assembly. I think I have done my share part.”
The event also featured remarks from Mayor Bernard Wagner and saw the Leader of the Opposition, Tracy Panton present.
Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.
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