Posted: Monday, August 12, 2024. 11:27 am CST.
By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: The United Democratic Party (UDP), founded on September 27, 1973, has long been a cornerstone of Belizean politics, established as a major opposition force against the People’s United Party (PUP).
The merger of the National Independence Party, the People’s Development Movement, and a new Liberal Party gave rise to the UDP, which has since seen significant electoral successes.
Former Prime Ministers Manuel Esquivel and Dean Barrow are notable for securing supermajorities for the UDP.
Esquivel achieved this milestone in 1984, and Barrow followed with a similar triumph in 2008.
However, the UDP’s fortunes began to wane following Barrow’s tenure, marked by widespread allegations of corruption under his administration and a public outcry that led to current Prime Minister, PUP’s John Briceno securing a supermajority in 2020.
While Barrow’s administration enjoyed three consecutive terms in government, his successor, UDP leader Shyne Barrow, has struggled to unify and galvanize the party’s base.
Shyne’s leadership has been marred by internal discord that threatens the party’s cohesion.
Recent events have highlighted the growing rifts within the UDP.
A recent National Party council meeting was abruptly suspended following heated arguments among party stalwarts, and Shyne Barrow’s leadership has faced criticism.
Shyne reportedly filed a police report against Deputy Leader Beverly Williams, accusing her of threats.
Williams had written to the UDP chairman to request a national convention.
However, UDP Chairman Michael Peyrefitte rejected Williams’ petition to hold a national convention.
Williams, however, contested this decision, asserting that Peyrefitte’s rejection was unconstitutional and tantamount to a power grab.
“Your decision is contemptuous of the constitution and is an act of totalitarianism tantamount to a hijacking of our beloved party,” Williams said.
Williams added that they will not allow that decision to stand and “ will take whatever actions necessary to force your compliance with the party’s constitution.”
As the UDP faces this internal strife, questions loom over whether former Prime Minister Dean Barrow will intervene to restore stability and prevent the internal collapse of the UDP.
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The post The internal collapse of the UDP: A Closer Look appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Monday, August 12, 2024. 11:27 am CST. By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: The United Democratic Party (UDP), founded on September 27, 1973, has long been a
The post The internal collapse of the UDP: A Closer Look appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.