United Democratic Party Leader Tracy Panton has launched a vehement critique against the Ministry of Transport’s proposed mandatory motorcycling course, characterizing the initiative as nothing short of “a hustle” designed to impose additional financial burdens on working-class citizens. The political leader articulated her position during a recently convened press conference, originally scheduled the previous week but postponed due to parliamentary committee obligations.
Panton emphasized her party’s firm opposition to any legislative measures that would exacerbate the economic strain on ordinary citizens through new taxes and fees. Instead of implementing costly training requirements, Panton advocates for enhanced enforcement mechanisms as the most viable pathway to improving road safety.
The UDP leader revealed that multiple significant bills—including occupational safety legislation, the NHI Bill, BELCOGEN Bill, Motorcycle Bill, Domestic Violence Bill, and Tobacco Bill—have encountered procedural delays within the government’s legislative agenda. According to Panton, these delays stem from disagreements among government backbenchers from both northern and southern constituencies who lack cabinet-level insight but recognize the potential negative impact on their constituents.
Panton challenged the fundamental efficacy of the proposed motorcycle course, questioning whether it would genuinely contribute to safer highways while simultaneously imposing financial hardships. She called for more critical examination of policy initiatives that disproportionately affect those already struggling with rising living costs, positioning her party as defenders of economic fairness for Belize’s working population.