Will Hugo Patt Without Support to John Saldivar?

One more story on the dilemma facing the U.D.P.  Minister of Natural Resources, Hugo Patt is running for first deputy leader under team Saldivar. They have been around the country meeting delegates who they say have been endorsing the slate.  Earlier today when we spoke with the Corozal North area representative, we asked him whether his support for Saldivar would change in light of his name being mentioned on court documents to be presented by the prosecution in the Lev Dermen case.  Patt says that it is concerning for the U.D.P., but that his support does not change.

On the Phone: Hugo Patt, U.D.P. Area Rep., Corozal North

“I haven’t had a chance to look at what was presented Duane, but as far as I indicated the evidence that we have obtained so far—without taking into consideration what has come out—is preliminary and we haven’t seen any kind of substantial evidence to indicate otherwise. So I think it is just a matter for us to wait and see what evidence will be presented and based on that we could actually say what steps we will take. I think Prime Minister was very clear in his press conference indicating that if any evidence comes up, then actions will be taken. But as we speak, I think it is preliminary to say whether we will take any action or whether we will withdraw our support to John.”

Duane Moody

“But at this point, you maintain your support for Minister John?”

On the Phone: Hugo Patt

“Yes, Duane. That is the case.”

Duane Moody

“It does give a black eye to the United Democratic Party because yet again a minister’s name is being called in a scandal.”

On the Phone: Hugo Patt

“Well it is concerning for all of us and I think that is the reason that we are…and one Prime Minister called this press conference to get the facts straight and secondly, nobody can put a blind eye onto this; it has to be concerning to all of us.”