Embassies, schools and political parties give condolences

As the sad news that the first and two-term Prime Minister Price passed away, the official condolences were flowing in from embassies, ambassadors, educational institutions, and political parties.  The government sent a diplomatic note to inform the world of Price’s passing. An official period of mourning now begins with flags flown at half-mast through September twenty-sixth with the exception of Independence Day. The release ends by saying “This was a giant of a man, the greatest architect of Belizean Nationalism and Belizean Sovereignty. May he rest in peace.”

The Embassy of Mexico expresses its deepest condolences to the Government, family and People of Belize for the loss of Right Honorable George Price.  Mexico joins in this moment of sorrow to mourn the passing of the National Hero and Father of Belize´s Independence.  Earlier today, during the presentation of credentials to the Governor-General at Belize House in Belmopan, the ambassadors from Sweden, South Africa, Israel, Algeria, the Czech Republic, Bolivia and Finland took the opportunity to extend deep condolences on the passing of our National Hero.

Saint John’s College, Price’s Alma Mater also sent a press release citing Price as a 1936 graduate. The Jesuit community will offer daily masses throughout the month of September on behalf of Price and his family.  And from the University of Belize, “the UB Board of Trustees, the Office of the President, Administration, Faculty, Staff, Students and the UB Family extend sincerest and deepest condolences to the family and to the nation of Belize on the passing …The Rt. Hon. Price, a gentle giant was among the Caribbean pioneers who championed political independence in their respective Caribbean territories.”

The People’s United Party says that “Mister Price’s selfless service to our country during his entire adult life is unmatched.  Because of his determination we are today an independent nation.”

P.U.P. Freetown Area Representative Francis Fonseca says in a release that “we, in Freetown, like to believe we have a special claim on George Price as our former and first P.U.P. Area Representative. Mr. Price touched the lives of many Freetown families and made lifelong friendships with longtime residents of the Old Kings Park Area which today still forms a part of the Freetown Constituency.”

The United Democratic Party’s statement read “Like the rest of the nation, we are saddened his death, but amidst the national mourning, we join in commemorating his great achievements for the Nation of Belize, which are especially remembered during this season of national celebrations.”

The National Institute of History and Culture also issued its own press release on Price’s passing. It said “As a statesman Mr. Price placed Belize on a global stage through his lobbying with world leaders for support of the Belizean quest for independence. As a citizen of Belize Mr. Price was an example of the patriotism and civic pride.”