In a significant political development, Tracy Taegar Panton, the Leader of the Opposition, has formally announced her candidacy for the position of Party Leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP). The announcement was made through a letter dated October 31, 2025, addressed to Sergio Chuc, Chairman of the UDP Nominations Committee. Panton’s application aligns with Article 9 of the UDP Constitution (Revised Edition 2016), setting the stage for a decisive National Leadership Convention on November 30, 2025.
Panton, who currently serves as the representative for the Albert constituency in the House of Representatives, emphasized the critical juncture at which the UDP finds itself. She highlighted her extensive public service career spanning over 35 years and her steadfast dedication to the party’s founding values as key qualifications for the leadership role. ‘My record of integrity, service to Belize, and commitment to the UDP’s principles uniquely position me to lead,’ she stated in her letter.
Adding weight to her candidacy, Panton revealed that she has secured the unanimous support of all four UDP Area Representatives and three Senators appointed for the 2025–2030 parliamentary term. Her bid for leadership comes at a time when the UDP is grappling with internal calls for renewal and unity, making the upcoming convention a closely watched event in Belizean politics.