A Game of Political Chess between Patrick Faber and John Saldivar

Orson ‘OJ’ Elrington

Both John Saldivar and Patrick Faber want to assume leadership of the United Democratic Party when Prime Minister Dean Barrow vacates the post.  Saldivar and Faber have been running a close political race, especially when it comes to the party’s conventions. This past Sunday, we saw Faber’s pick Orson “OJ” Elrington defeat Saldivar’s choice Doctor Carla Barnett in the U.D.P. Freetown Convention. Previous to that, both Saldivar and Faber were seen rejoicing as Philip Willoughby defeated Michael Peyrefitte, who was said to be the “dark horse” interested in leading the U.D.P.  On Sunday, the media asked Elrington about Faber’s political tactics to secure as much support leading up to the U.D.P. leadership convention.

Orson ‘OJ’ Elrington, U.D.P. Standard Bearer, Freetown

“You need to ask him how consequential it is for him at the end of the day. He can answer that question but again the people of this country know what type of leadership that they want. So I have no doubt that he will come out victorious and become the next prime minister of Belize.”

Patrick Faber

Patrick Faber, Deputy Party Leader, U.D.P.

“While yes I am ambitious to become the leader of the party, the ultimate goal for me is to win the next general elections and to put in place the most formidable candidates. With no disrespect to Dr. Barnett, I felt that OJ Elrington is a better candidate and that is why I supported him. It is true that he will probably support me when the deputy leadership race rolls around but for me that is secondary it is the fact that he has what it takes to be able to win the seat.”

The U.D.P. will hold conventions in the Toledo West and Corozal Southeast constituency on November eighteen.