Espat Stands Firm Despite Years of Threats

Belizean activist José Luis Uc Espat says he’s faced threats for years for speaking truth to power. In light of the Joseph Budna kidnapping and extraction, we asked if he is fearful of state retaliation for organizing protests and challenging the administration. However, he is drawing a sharp contrast between himself and Budna. Speaking passionately, Espat insists he has nothing to hide and nothing to fear, emphasizing his commitment to justice and his role in searching for missing people, a task he says no politician has dared to join.

 

Jose Luis Uc Espat, Activist

“Me, my brother, I’m going to tell you this on the news. I am not Mr. Buda. I leave everyday alert. I am a person who is educated. I’m a person who doesn’t have a criminal record. I’m not wanted in Guatemala or on the moon, and I’m telling the nation this and the Prime Minister, anyone, when come for me, call ready because I will fight back. I know play. I am not here robbing anybody. I’m not here scamming anybody. I’m not here doing drugs or I’m not the one trafficking the drugs, so I’m have nothing for fear. I have nothing to fear. I stand up for this country and the people at this country, I’m doing things for this country that no politician dares to do.  I have invited all these politicians to come on the searches for the missing people. Not one of them have come, not one has put on their boots and come and stand up for the people.”