Does Bruce want a war with the government?
Samuel Bruce
The government’s attorney, Priscilla Banner, argued that the motive for acquiring the land is reasonable since it is for the improvement of education. But Musa countered that Benque Viejo is well-endowed with land and taking over Bruce’s was not necessary. As for Bruce, he says that he had gotten the verbal consent of Area Representative, Edwin Contreras, for the project but when he started to work he got the order to stop. But is his decision to hire the former PM an indication that he wants a full-fledged war with the government?
Samuel Bruce, Suing GOB Over Land
“This is a perfect example of giving alternatives, entertainment and to keep our youths out of mischief so I think that the government should be supporting it. I thought they would be happy. When I learned that I’m being forced to take them to court, forced to put up a fight just to hold my own property I already paid for nearly twenty years ago, to me the whole thing is ridiculous.”
Marion Ali
“But you’re taking the government to court with a member of the opposition and the former PM at that so I’m wondering if it’s an indication or a message from you to the government that listen let’s battle this and let’s battle this to the end, it’s a full-fledge war.”
Samuel Bruce
“Well after discussing this with a few of my friends, and this has nothing to do with politics, in that just the person that is uniquely qualified to handle such a landmark case to defend the property rights of the people of Belize you want the most experienced, in fact, everyone I spoke to said I couldn’t find anyone more qualified to do it, more an expert to the law. So that’s why I spoke to Mr. Musa and he agreed to come out of retirement to accept this case because it is such a landmark case. This is not a fight about money; I’m telling the government I don’t want your money. Let me develop my land the way I want.”
The property is located about a mile and a half from Mount Carmel, which is also near eight other lots that the school was previously given. The case was adjourned until nine on Wednesday morning.
