Will Public Pressure Influence Cabinet’s Vote on SMART Acquisition?
Cabinet still has made up its mind on BTL’s proposed acquisition. Earlier today, Cabinet Minister Orlando Habet said ministers needed more time and more information before they make a final decision on the controversial deal. Cabinet heard from BTL, the Public Utilities Commission, and the Social Security Board, but key questions remained. Today, we asked Habet for his position on the matter.
Orlando Habet, Cabinet Minister
“It has been discussed amongst our cabinet. We had three presentations from Social Security, BTL, and what was it? And the POUC. And so I’m waiting for Tuesday to see what will be the decision.”
Reporter
“You have to decide. You will contribute to that decision.”
Orlando Habet
“That’s right. So we’ll see as a cabinet, that’s what we have to do.”
Reporter
“Do you feel the pressure of the people to oppose this deal?”
Orlando Habet
“There is from the people, but the people is also social security, represented by social security in a way because they have some investments in BTL. So you have to look at it from all sides.”
Reporter
“The people don’t want.”
Orlando Habet
“Which people?”
Reporter
“Belizean citizens, the owners of BTL.”
Orlando Habet
“How do you know that?”
Reporter
“Because you see it all on social media, you speak to people. They’ve been making their opinion known”
Orlando Habet
“But how many people on social media?”
Reporter
“So the unions are going to demonstrate through the while you all are meeting. The unions represent hundreds of workers, thousands actually.”
Orlando Habet
“So it’s gonna be a decision that cabinet will make on Tuesday.”
His remarks align with those of Cabinet Minister Michel Chebat, who said earlier this week that he needs additional information before deciding.
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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