Is Belmopan’s Municipal Race Shaped by Scandal and Suspicion?
Richie Galvez says the Mira Millions scandal is pushing some disillusioned voters toward his campaign, but the political baggage in Belmopan does not belong to the PUP alone. Questions continue to follow Galvez about his relationship with former UDP heavyweight John Saldivar, and the influence Saldivar may still hold. Tonight, Galvez addresses both controversies and answers the question many voters may be asking: is a vote for Galvez also a vote for Saldivar?
Isidoro “Richie” Galvez, UDP Mayoral Candidate, Belmopan
“Yes, Belmopan people are fed up and it is worrisome and concerning for a lot of the residents and I can feel that a lot of support is coming my way based on all the scandals that are happening for my opponents on the other side. You do have that massive support coming my way. But also you do have a substantial amount of voters who are coming out to vote for rather than against someone. The nature of Belizean politics, majority of the time, the voters vote out rather than vote in.”
Paul Lopez
“And in the similar fashion where people are saying a vote for Cawich is a vote for Mira, people are saying a vote for you is a vote for John Saldivar. Where do you stand with your relationship with him?”
Isidoro “Ritchie” Galvez
“One, that number of people saying that is very minimal. That is more a propaganda and the die hard PUPs saying that. Form the get go I made it clear that I respect Mr. Saldivar. Similar to many residents in Belmopan we give him the recognition and acknowledgment for what he has done in Belmopan, but we believe that the dynamics have changed. There is a cloud above his head and we cannot run from that. That is the reality and I want to lead my own pathway.”
Galvez has announced four members of his councilor slate, with an additional two expected to be revealed in the coming days.
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