Guats Sound Off on Belize’s I.C.J. Referendum
Juan De La Os
In less than a month, Belizeans will go to the polls to vote in the I.C.J. Referendum. For some, the vote is a straight yes or no, but many are still undecided and others are overwhelmed with the volumes of information and politicizing of the issue. Our correspondent Aurelio Sho was in Peten, Guatemala last weekend and he spoke with three influential persons in that community, who shared their thoughts on our April tenth vote. Here’s what they had to say.
Juan De La Os, Businessman
“I would prefer the vote yes so that we can decide at once so that we can close this page in history. Belize is independent. Guatemala is independent so I don’t think there is a dispute near border. We go to study over there and you guys come to study over here. So, the only peaceful solution we have is the one that the governments give.”
Reporter
“What message do you have for Belizeans as they prepare to go to the polls on April 10th?”
Juan De La Os
“The message I would give them is to think about it but really put some head in it – think really hard on it. It is going to be yes or no – but for my personal opinion – vote yes so that there wouldn’t be no problem for two countries living among each other.”
Eddy Romero
Eddy Romero, Professor [Translated]
“I am of the opinion that if Belize already achieved its Independence many years ago and if there is a solution to this issue between the countries that can be solved once and for all, then I think this is an opportunity to finalize the situation that existed for so long ago. The two countries should take that into consideration and make a decision to end this dispute that has been taking place for so many years.”
