Mayor Wagner’s Succession Choice Divides His Party’s Ranks

A political endorsement is stirring debate inside the PUP, as Mayor Bernard Wagner’s backing of his son-in-law steps into the spotlight. Wagner has made it clear; he believes Deputy Mayor Eluide Miller is the right choice to carry the party’s banner in the next municipal election. But that support hasn’t gone unchallenged. Others within the party are rallying behind former Deputy Mayor Allan Pollard, setting the stage for a closely watched internal contest. Both men have proven themselves at the polls, and ultimately, the party will decide who gets the nod. But for now, questions are swirling about loyalty, influence, and political succession. Today, we put those concerns directly to Mayor Wagner.

 

Bernard Wagner, Mayor, Belize City

“Me endorsing someone does not guarantee, because the will of the people will prevail. I as the current mayor who has been around the young man for sometime see the qualities, work ethics, moral values, dedication and it has been not a golden spoon. It has been about working and preparing. When you prepare you are able to meet the opportunity and Eluide in my view, as a young person has all the qualities to be a great mayor for the city. I am a fair person, very fair, the two young men, actually Allan and myself started in 2018. We continue to enjoy a professional relationship. He is the councilor responsible for works so he carries out an extensive portfolio, one of the biggest in the city. So, Eluide and him are two viable candidates. Again, I have my right to choose who I want, but the people will have their right to choose who they want as well and I stick with that.”

 

When asked whether he’d back an outright endorsement or push for a mayoral convention, Mayor Wagner sidestepped the choice, saying he’ll leave that decision up to the party.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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