Posted: Tuesday, March 4, 2025. 4:48 pm CST.
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize News.
By Lennox Lamb: As the second half of a football match unfolds with a score of Four to Nil, it can feel like quite the uphill battle for a nation entering its own second century. In the game of democracy, however, the score isn’t determined merely by the number of candidates stepping onto the field during elections.
Imagine a scenario where only one candidate throws their hat in the ring. At first glance, it seems like a telling sign of a lack of competition—certainly a red flag for any democratic process. But with just 10 days until election day, the air feels a bit bland, like a game that’s already reached its final whistle.
What could be causing this lopsided affair and what does it mean for Belize as we chart the course of governance and democracy? Let’s break it down.
*Political Monopolization:*
When only one candidate emerges on nomination day, many speculate that it stems from the monopolistic grip of the Blue machine on political power. This situation severely limits voter choice and raises alarms about the very foundation of democracy. After all, electioneering is a contact sport, where underhanded tactics are common; however, an ugly win is still preferable to a pretty loss.
*Voter Engagement:*
Political thinkers might argue that a sole candidate could signal low voter engagement or even apathy. Voters may feel disillusioned, believing their participation won’t spark meaningful change. Yet, this isn’t the whole story—especially in four key constituencies among some of Belize’s poorest citizens. For many, election season isn’t just about politics; it’s an opportunity to earn some much-needed extra cash, prompting real excitement to engage in the process.
*Freedom of Expression:*
International observers might quickly raise concerns about a lack of Freedom of Expression, interpreting a shortage of candidates as a potential sign of political repression or authoritarianism. However, this isn’t exactly the case for Belizeans, who cherish their ability to speak their minds without fear. Believing we are free to act and express ourselves is deeply ingrained in our society.
But what truly raises the stakes for every Belizean is *Legitimacy.*
When elections play host to just one candidate across numerous constituencies, it casts a shadow over the legitimacy of the electoral process. This can lead the public, as well as regional and international observers, to question the robustness of our democracy.
As we wrap up this pregame analysis, it’s clear: the presence of a single candidate in two major constituencies could have significant ramifications for political dynamics within our government. This situation shines a spotlight on deeper issues within Belize’s political landscape rather than reflecting the overall strength of our electoral system. It’s a wake-up call that calls for urgent attention to the health of our democracy as we move forward.
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The post The game of Democracy appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Tuesday, March 4, 2025. 4:48 pm CST. The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize
The post The game of Democracy appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.