BTL–Speednet Deal Seen as Pivotal for PM Leadership

Turning back to our headline story tonight, Dr. Castillo’s latest poll also suggests the proposed BTL–Speednet acquisition could become a defining moment in Prime Minister John Briceño’s leadership. It’s a move that, according to the data, may ripple far beyond Orange Walk Central and potentially influence political outcomes on the ground in places like Dangriga. And while residents there won’t directly decide the prime minister’s fate at the polls, the findings raise real questions about how this issue could shape the People’s United Party’s overall standing. We heard from Dr. Castillo, and Dangriga’s Area Representative Dr. Louis Zabaneh also weighed in.

 

Dr. Philip Castillo, Retired Assistant Professor, UB

“We have seen nationally that several important organizations seems to be hesitant or just generally against it. Certainly, the UDP is against it. The council of churches have issues, the unions have issues, and then, in speaking to residents of Dangriga, again these weren’t solicited, but some people shared their opinions and to the extent that their opinions mirror national opinions, then that makes it potentially a watershed moment.”

 

Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Area Representative, Dangriga

“I wouldn’t think there will be much. I think across the country, if we are to be realistic, that has had an impact on our capital, political capital, if you will, no question. But in Dangriga, the person knows me there. In fact the media has interviewed me early on and I said that I personally believe that the matter could have been handled better in terms of consultation. I am a strong proponent of consultation. So I think the people in Dangriga know that is how I operate. So if there are any concerns they have it would be local concerns.”

 

As both men point out, the political impact of the BTL–Speednet deal may hinge less on national noise and more on how voters, locally and across the country, feel it was handled.