Minister of Transport Threatens Legal Action Following A/C Allegations

On Thursday, the Government of Belize issued a statement refuting allegations being made in other parts of the media against Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Youth, Sports and Transport.  The accusations made against the Stann Creek West Area Representative involve the purchase of air conditioning units.  The release went on to say, categorically, “there is absolutely no truth to the information contained in the post, nor in what was stated on Wave Radio.  Ten A/C units were purchased by the Ministry of Transport to be placed at the ministry’s offices in the south.  All A/C units have been installed”.  The statement, however, was issued while Minister Ferguson was away on a working visit to Mexico.  When we spoke with him earlier today about the allegations, not only was he livid, Ferguson also threatened legal action against those media houses that aired or published the false claims.

Isani Cayetano

“There’s an allegation that has been brought against you with respect of some air conditioners and the fact that they are accusing you, in a manner, of attempting to get these items paid for by the government, but for personal use at your hotel.”

Rodwell Ferguson

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Youth, Sports & Transport

“First of all, we have irresponsible media and you will face the wrath of the law.  I just came back from Mexico last night.  This morning I went to Cayo for La Ruta Maya and now I am here, so I am not a minister who wahn stand [by] idle and I want to caution this nation and I want to tell the prime minister, ah noh do mi investigation yet, but you can dash me out of your cabinet if you find any wrongdoings against me with any air condition.  Dash me out of your cabinet, sir.”

Isani Cayetano

“How do you respond directly to the allegation, nonetheless?”

Rodwell Ferguson

“I will not respond directly because my lawyer will, the case is in the hands of my lawyer and we are going to court with this one because I will not allow them to stain my name and my integrity.”