UDP Area Rep Tracy Taegar Panton Supports Cuban President’s Visit to Belize

Area Representative for Albert, Tracy Taegar-Panton, was also in attendance, showing her support on behalf of the United Democratic Party. Leader of the Opposition, Moses “Shyne” Barrow, was noticeably absent from this Special Sitting of The National Assembly because he says the Cuban state is built on oppression and violation of human rights and promotes anti-democratic measures against its citizens. But, Taegar-Panton says the LOO’s sentiments do not mirror hers or of the United Democratic Party. 

Tracy Taegar Panton, Area Representative, Albert Division: “The Government and people of Cuba have enjoyed a long standing relationship with Belize a long standing friendship, diplomatic relations for almost thirty years. They have supported both government administrations, they have supported the people of Belize in many areas education for one, heath, arts and culture and so many other economic sectors so I think it’s important to be here to show our respect and to offer our gratitude to the president of Cuba.”

Reporter: Ms.Panton I must ask, the leader of your party he had said that he was going to boycott today’s event based on what he said is the country’s human rights record. What was that like when you heard that and what’s your sentiment ? 

Tracy Taegar Panton, Area Representative, Albert Division: “Well I was certainly blindsided by his comments. I don’t believe there was any consultation within the party on his personal position and he has a right to his personal position but it is fairly well established that that is not the view of the wider membership of the United Democratic Party.”