First U.D.P. Prime Minister, Sir Manuel Esquivel Passes

Sir Manuel Esquivel

There is sad new for the nation tonight with the passing of former Prime Minister Manuel Esquivel. In a brief circular issued by the Leader of the Opposition, Shyne Barrow, extends condolences to the Esquivel family. Barrow wrote of Sir Manuel, “Sir Esquivel’s contributions to Belize and the United Democratic Party will forever be treasured. May your soul Rest in Peace and your memory of prudent, collective governance live on”. News Five found in our archives a story dating back to 1998, when Sir Manuel was campaigning leading into general elections that year.

Sir Manuel Esquivel

Reporter

“I notice you haven’t lost your confidence since the campaigning started.

Right Hon. Sir Manuel Esquivel, deceased

“No, because if anything it has gotten better. So, as we go along meeting people, the support is kind of overwhelming, so it’s very very encouraging.”

Sir Manuel Esquivel

In July 2021, Sir Esquivel was the subject of a book entitled “Still Waters” a biography of his personal and political life.  Manuel Esquivel was born on May second, 1940 and was Belize’s second and fourth Prime Minister, from 1984 to 1989, and then again from 1993 to 1998. He won his seat in the House of Representatives from the newly created Caribbean Shores constituency in December of 1984. In 1998 he won again in the same constituency, and in 1986, the late Sir Manuel was appointed to the Privy Council of the United Kingdom by Queen Elizabeth the Second. The late Sir Manuel is survived by his wife, Kathy, and their three children: Laura, Ruth, and David.