PM Weighs in on Politicization of I.C.J. Campaign

Dean Barrow

What initially began as an awareness campaign a year ago, to inform voters about the Belize/Guatemala territorial dispute, has since morphed into a party political crusade.  The United Democratic Party and the People‘s United Party have taken opposing sides in the matter.  But what can we expect come Referendum Day and will the machineries of both mass parties be activated to mobilize voters in the same way as Election Day?

Prime Minister Dean Barrow

“Unfortunately, as I said, I have tried to stay away from politicization, but you are right.  All I am saying to our people, encourage the voters to come out and to vote yes, but don’t do so by way of wearing any kind of party colors.  Don’t do so by way of any naked appeal to partisan sympathy and take the position of the party that we feel this really is in the best interest of the country and that is why we are asking you to vote yes.”

Reporter

“But isn’t it illogical to ask a political party for that kind of restraint and finesse when we know that political parties are only designed to have one gear: drive forward.”

Prime Minister Dean Barrow

“Well, it may be illogical but it’s the right thing to do.  Whether in the end it will work out in quite the fashion that I envision and that I am appealing for clearly is left to be seen, but I hear you.  It is a hell of a balancing act but I have asked my people to try to walk that particular tightrope.”