In his first extensive interview since resigning from government, former Belizean minister José Abelardo Mai has vehemently denied three serious allegations that have circulated following his departure from office. The prominent political figure directly addressed claims of cartel connections, safety concerns, and involvement in the abduction case of Joseph Ryan Budna, categorically rejecting all accusations as unfounded.
Mai characterized the allegations as media-driven fabrications, stating: “One or two media houses have nothing but allegations. If any credible evidence existed, it would have been presented already. I have committed no wrongful or illicit acts, and no evidence exists to prove otherwise.”
When questioned about potential cartel threats, Mai responded with emphatic denial: “Absolutely not, sir. I possess no knowledge of cartel members nor any desire to know them. Based on reports from Mexico, these organizations engage in horrific activities including extortion, beatings, and torture against Belizean travelers. Responsible media should understand the dangers of repeatedly mentioning these dangerous individuals.”
The former minister elaborated on his deliberate avoidance of any criminal associations: “These matters present grave life-threatening risks. I maintain conscious distance from such elements and can state unequivocally that I have never knowingly established contact with cartel members. Naturally, criminals don’t identify themselves openly, but to my certain knowledge, no such connections exist.”
Mai challenged his accusers to produce substantiating evidence while defending his conduct during and after his ministerial service. The interview raises critical questions about verification standards in media reporting, the timing of these allegations, and potential political motivations behind their dissemination.