Panton on Anti-Shyne Ads: ‘It wasn’t me.’

Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton is denying any involvement in recent political advertisements targeting UDP Leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow.

In a statement, Panton said she “wishes to make clear that she has had no involvement in the production, funding, or distribution of recent political advertisements critical of UDP members.”

Panton added that she “has not authorised, sponsored, or endorsed any paid political advertisements attacking fellow UDP members” and that it does not represent her “views or her approach to party leadership.”

Panton called for “respectful dialogue and constructive engagement” ahead of the party’s National Convention on November 30, which will elect a new leadership team.

The ads criticised UDP Leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow’s leadership as “hostile, angry, accusatory, punitive, and isolated.”

Earlier in September, Barrow hinted that his recent State of the Nation address may be his last as UDP leader. He pledged to work with his successor and Belizeans to hold the government accountable and prepare for a new UDP administration.

“This may be my last State of the Nation Speech as Leader of the UDP, but I pledge to you the Belizean people to work with my successor and all Belizeans to hold this Government accountable and form a new UDP Government that will deliver on their promises for a better Belize,” Barrow said.

The convention will fill key positions, including Party Leader, 1st and 2nd Deputy Leaders, Party Chairman, and Deputy Chairman.