The Church Weighs In on Debacle

Philip Wright

The Council of Churches today chimed in on the debacle of the last seventy-two hours that has resulted in a sense of uncertainty in the political leadership of the government.  As a member of civil society, the Church has been quiet and hasn’t really spoken out on corruption, crime and other issues plaguing the country.  Well today, the Council broke its silence and Bishop Philip Wright says that they are concerned about the impact that the “instability at the level of leadership” will have on all Belizeans.

Bishop Philip Wright, President, Council of Churches

“There is no doubt that when we have even the appearance of instability or worse at the level of leadership, you have to have a concern of how it will impact people in general. We are talking about the ruling party at the moment, we are talking about what appears to be a bit of a power struggle still and I don’t think that can hold well for a nation. On Sunday, the delegates of one particular party spoke, but I think the voice that is far more important is the voice of the people of this nation and perhaps in the near future, we will hear that larger voice. But yes, I think when you look at what is going on, as a concerned citizen, as a Belizean who loves this country, you cannot be happy with the kind of situation as you see it at the moment.”

Duane Moody

“We’ve seen social partners, civil society come out and speak about corruption because that is at the root of this whole thing. But for some time, people would say that we haven’t heard from the churches, the Council of Churches to be exact.  Can you speak to that?  Have you guys lost your voice when it comes to issues like these that are of national importance?”

Bishop Philip Wright

“I would hate to think that we have lost our voice and that is a fair question Duane. What happens is when we meet sometimes as executive, we do discuss these matters. The concerns are raised. So it is not that we are unaware. I think that what we have not done all the time is to leave that meeting with a press release to say here is the voice of the…and on that point; yeah I believe that there are times that we should say more.”