In a landmark political transition, Belize’s United Democratic Party has undergone a comprehensive leadership restructuring, culminating in the election of Tracy Panton as the party’s first female leader. This historic appointment not only shatters gender barriers within the UDP but establishes Panton as the inaugural woman to command a major political party in Belize’s history.
The leadership convention, held on November 30, 2025, witnessed the consolidation of Panton’s position as Opposition Leader following her endorsement as party head. The newly formed executive team features Hugo Patt as First Deputy Party Leader and Miguel Guerra assuming the role of Second Deputy.
Among the most closely contested positions was the Party Chairmanship, which saw a three-way competition between Roosevelt Blades, Sheena Pitts, and John Saldivar. After rounds of intense voting, Pitts emerged victorious, adding this responsibility to her existing role as one of UDP’s senators. The Vice Chairman position was secured by John Castillo following a direct contest with Ivan Williams.
This leadership transition marks the conclusion of Moses “Shyne” Barrow’s tenure as party leader. In his farewell address, Barrow emphasized the peaceful transfer of power, stating: “As I engage in the peaceful, united transfer of leadership to my successor, the honourable Tracy Panton, I pray that the creator impart her with the wisdom and the knowledge, understanding, and political will to execute effective strategies in the rebuilding processes of our United Democratic Party.”
Panton characterized the endorsement as the culmination of extensive groundwork, acknowledging: “It has been a long journey. My first task is uniting this party across the north, west, south, and central regions… The work is now only beginning.”
The convention occurred against a backdrop of internal tensions that have persistently challenged party cohesion throughout the year. These divisions were further highlighted by a leaked WhatsApp exchange among delegates mere hours before the convention, raising concerns about the party’s ability to achieve unity despite repeated attempts.
Panton now assumes command of a freshly constituted UDP executive, tasked with steering the party toward a renewed political direction and rebuilding its organizational strength.