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In an exclusive interview with News Five, José Abelardo Mai, the recently departed Minister of Agriculture and Orange South Area Representative, has publicly addressed the circumstances surrounding his abrupt resignation from Prime Minister Briceño’s Cabinet on November 17th. The political shockwave, which followed weeks of intense social media speculation and serious allegations, is now being countered by Mai’s detailed account.

Mai categorically refuted the viral claims linking him to criminal activities and the alleged abduction of Joseph Budna, dismissing them as a politically orchestrated smear campaign designed to tarnish his reputation. He expressed particular dismay at the online ridicule, including the Prime Minister’s ‘horse tale’ anecdote, which fueled a wave of memes and public mockery.

The former minister presented a contrasting narrative to the political scandal, attributing his sudden departure to a critical and chronic spinal condition requiring immediate surgical intervention. Mai detailed a history of spinal issues, specifying severe deterioration at the L5-S1 level where the disc has ‘dried up,’ alongside herniated discs at L3 and L4. He revealed that his resignation letter explicitly requested to be relieved of his ministerial duties to seek medical attention, a fact he claims was inaccurately represented.

When confronted with questions about the timing and skepticism surrounding his health claims, Mai remained resolute, stating his priority is his personal well-being, his family, and his constituents, rather than convincing critics. He admitted the situation carries a degree of irony, recalling his own past criticisms of former Prime Minister Dean Barrow’s back problems while in opposition.

Despite his firm stance, Mai acknowledged the personal toll the scandal has taken on his loved ones, though he maintains a stoic public facade. He confirmed he is actively seeking medical advice, with consultations pointing to potential surgeries in Guatemala, Houston, or Germany, but no final decision or schedule has been set.

Concluding his defense, Mai asserted he is not evading scrutiny and is prepared to defend himself in a court of law if necessary. He accused his detractors of bullying and spreading baseless gossip, affirming his choice to disengage from social media negativity and focus his energy on his recovery and constituency work.

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.

In a striking development within Belizean politics, former Agriculture Minister José Abelardo Mai has issued a forceful denial of allegations connecting him to the abduction of journalist Joseph Budna. The incident, which occurred outside the Orange Walk Police Station where Budna was reportedly assaulted and forcibly taken, has sparked widespread speculation about potential state involvement.

Mai, who resigned from his ministerial position in November 2025 amid growing suspicion, addressed the allegations directly during a recent media interaction. He characterized the accusations circulating on social media and public forums as not only false but deliberately provocative and disrespectful.

“I must disregard the incessant noise in the public domain and various Facebook allegations,” stated Mai. “While some criticisms are expected given the political climate—I myself frequently opposed the UDP during my time in Opposition—certain individuals have crossed into profoundly offensive territory with these unfounded claims.”

When questioned specifically about his potential connection to Budna’s extraction, Mai responded unequivocally: “No, sir. To my knowledge, Mr. Budna was a reporter who interviewed me on one occasion. I have never been involved in any capacity with that matter.”

The case continues to generate significant public interest, with many observers noting the concerning implications for press freedom and political transparency in Belize. The resignation of a high-ranking official followed by such serious allegations has created a complex political scenario that remains unresolved.