UDP Demands Transparency and Fair Play in Proposed BTL Deal

The United Democratic Party is drawing a hard line on the proposed BTL deal. At a press conference in Belize City this morning, Party Leader Tracy Panton laid down the law: yes, the UDP supports tech growth and investment, but not at the expense of transparency or fair play. So, what’s on their list of non-negotiables? First, full public disclosure of independent assessments, no secrets. Second, a proper debate in parliament before anything moves forward. Third, strong protection for consumers and workers. And finally, clear rules to keep competition fair. Panton says these measures aren’t just nice to have, they’re critical to protect the public interest and ensure good governance. In short, the UDP wants progress, but with accountability front and center.

 

Tracy Panton, Leader, United Democratic Party

“Here are the UDP’s non-negotiable demands, public disclosure on the independent assessments and evaluations that have been complied to justify this deal must be made public. There must be full transparency on financing sources and public exposure. Parliamentary consideration and debate must be had before the process is allowed to proceed any further. There must be binding consume protection on pricing and service quality. There must be binding worker protection and disclosure on labor impact. The5re must be the establishment of clear competition and merger control rules, decoupling of the PUC appointment of members from those who run the government or at minimum the inclusion of an opposition representative on the commission. Let me be clear, the UDP is not anti= technology, not anti-investment. We are however firmly oppose to secrecy. We do not accept monopolies without proper consultation and consent.”