The United Democratic Party (UDP) has publicly justified its strategic boycott of a recent House of Representatives session, framing the move as a principled stand against governmental corruption. During a press conference held on February 10, 2026, Opposition Leader Tracy Panton characterized the decision as an essential ‘act of conscience’.
The boycott was directly triggered by mounting concerns surrounding Belize Telemedia Limited’s (BTL) proposed $80 million acquisition of Speednet/SMART. Panton’s caucus expressed firm resolve, declaring that UDP parliamentarians would not permit the national Assembly to serve as a ‘rubber stamp for corruption.’
Panton launched a pointed critique against Prime Minister John Briceño, highlighting a perceived contradiction in his actions. She questioned how the Prime Minister, who initially claimed unawareness of BTL’s negotiations with his own family company, could now assert authority to direct a pause in the acquisition process. ‘The prime minister of this country has inserted himself to direct a pause on a deal he knew nothing about,’ Panton stated, emphasizing the apparent inconsistency.
The opposition leader’s rhetoric intensified as she asserted that UDP parliamentarians ‘will not be treated like kunumunu’—a Belizean Creole term implying foolishness or being misled.
In the absence of opposition lawmakers, the political atmosphere outside the newly renovated National Assembly took on a celebratory tone. A significant gathering of supporters from the ruling People’s United Party (PUP) assembled, described by Secretary General Collet Montejo as showing general support for party leaders and celebrating the parliamentary building’s reopening. Party Chairman Henry Charles Usher added that supporters were present to endorse the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Bill. However, attendees including Pickstock Street captain Shaheed Hauze confirmed their presence was specifically to support the controversial BTL acquisition currently under scrutiny.