Shyne and Tracy Unite on Parade Float, UDP Signals Truce?

Is the United Democratic Party finally turning a corner? After months of public tension and behind-the-scenes drama between Party Leader Shyne Barrow and Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton, it looks like the two may have finally called a truce. On September Tenth, both leaders were spotted riding together, on the same float, during the Citizens’ Parade. It’s a rare and surprising show of unity, especially after the bitter back-and-forth over who should lead the opposition. So, is this the start of a new chapter for the U.D.P. or just a temporary ceasefire? Following the day’s events, Barrow wrote, “Belize First! Thanks to the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Tracy Panton, for her gracious invitation for me to join her today in the Battle of St George’s Caye Day Parade. It is no coincidence that the LOO and I united on the day we celebrate the Two Hundred and Twenty-seventh Anniversary of the coming together of Belizeans from Flowers Bank to Belize Town, Baymen, free and enslaved, to fight against the common enemy who wished to conquer Belize. Today we have one common enemy, the PUP Government, who is engaged in the abduction of our citizens, highest cost of living ever, lowest quality of life ever, corruption, poor healthcare, poor quality of life and rampant violation of our human and civil rights. Now more than ever the Nation needs the United Democratic Party to come together in order to mount a strong Opposition and rescue Belize from the punishment of the Briceno Administration. Just as we defeated the gargantuan enemy of Belize two hundred and twenty-seven years ago, today we will unite to defeat a contemptuous Government that has lost its way. May the ancestors be with us”.