Panton Accuses Government of Failing Belizean Families

With everyday expenses climbing and no relief in sight, Opposition Leader Tracy Panton says Belizeans are being squeezed from all sides, and fuel and energy prices are at the heart of the problem. Addressing reporters at today’s UDP press conference, Panton warned that the rising cost of living is pushing families into uncomfortable territory, creating uncertainty for households trying to keep up. She accused the Briceño administration of failing to put people first, arguing that at a time when basic necessities are becoming harder to afford, Belizeans are still waiting for meaningful relief from the government.

 

Tracy Panton, Leader, United Democratic Party

“The uncertainties that Belizeans face on a day-to-day basis reminds me of when we found ourselves exposed to the COVID-19 pandemic, back in 2020. At that time the UDP administration sought to put the people of this country first. Effectively with the high cost of energy, the high cost of fuel and the escalating cost of living we are now facing, what can best be described as COVID 2.0, the government’s first priority in times like these should be to the people of Belize. Across the length and breath of this country, Belizeans are frustrated, we are overwhelmed, overburdened and increasingly unheard.”

 

Panton called on the Briceño administration to lower its tax take on the cost of fuel as a first measure of relief.

 

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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