BELIZE CITY – Political tensions have intensified following a contentious protest outside the Social Security Board, sparking a public dispute between the United Democratic Party (UDP) and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). The conflict emerged after union leaders accused UDP supporters of exhibiting aggressive behavior during Wednesday’s demonstration – allegations the opposition party vehemently denies.
UDP Chairlady Sheena Pitts has issued a sharp rebuttal, asserting her party acted independently without coordination with labor organizations. In her response to critics, Pitts emphasized that the fundamental national concern should remain centered on the proposed Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) acquisition of Speednet Communications, rather than what she characterized as peripheral disputes about protest tactics.
“The notion that the UDP as an independent entity is meeting of the minds with the union, I don’t know that has happened,” Pitts stated. “If the unions decide to operate in a particular way, that is their prerogative. The United Democratic Party is ensuring we fulfill exactly what we were mandated to do.”
The UDP leader dismissed the criticism as counterproductive “hair-splitting” that distracts from what she considers a grave national issue. Pitts redirected attention toward Prime Minister John Briceño’s administration, accusing the government of forming what she metaphorically described as a “northern caucus gang” while allegedly ignoring public opposition to the telecommunications merger.
Pitts expressed frustration that public concerns about the BTL-Speednet deal are being overshadowed by political maneuvering. “What is concerning is not about what I am saying or what the President of the BNTU is saying,” she emphasized. “The focus should remain on the fact that the public has sounded the alarm against this deal, yet the government moves forward like a juggernaut through a wall.”
The UDP maintains that despite the methodological disagreements with union partners, the primary objective remains opposing a telecommunications consolidation that they believe threatens national interests and demonstrates government overreach.