LOO Calls Out Network of NGOs’ Hypocrisy

On Monday, the Belize Network of NGOs, led by Senator Janelle Chanona, issued a statement in which it supports the call for the Privileges Committee of the House of Representatives to, “review the Leader of the Opposition’s actions in response to the speaker in the matter of his no-confidence motion”.  Elsewhere, the release goes on to say, “it is indeed the collective responsibility of all members of the National Assembly to maintain the dignity and authority of parliamentary proceedings.  It is therefore tantamount for all members to exercise conformity to the Standing Orders, particularly regarding decorum, while executing the people’s business”.  To this, the Opposition Leader points out the insincerity of the Belize Network of NGOs, by citing a previous incident involving the Area Representative for Albert that subsequently went without sanction or reprimand.

Shyne Barrow

Shyne Barrow, Leader of the Opposition

“Respectfully, the hypocrisy of the BNN.  When then member from Orange Walk South told the member from Albert to go sit on a carrot in a farm, BNN said nothing.  The United Women’s Group of the PUP said nothing.  The speaker, when it was brought to her attention, through a letter from the member from Albert, did nothing.  She had a lot to say on Friday.  She did nothing when the matter was brought to her by myself and other colleagues in the house.  She said, “Oh well, it’s up to the member to do what he wants to do.”  She did not say that he should go before a Privileges Committee.  So, in my opinion, the speaker and her supporters are acting privileged, they are acting entitled.  They are acting as if they are superior.  The rights of Valerie Woods are no more than Tracy Panton.  Tracy Panton is an elected member of the House of Representatives, a two-term member of the House of Representatives, a one-time minister.  So why all the outrage now?  Why all of a sudden BNN got voice?”