Leader of the Opposition’s words of Price resonate

John Briceño

While Barrow gave a breakdown of projects that are either planned or in progress, the Leader of the Opposition took his time at the podium as a reflection on the nation that George Price envisioned.  Briceño spoke of nationality and nationhood while quoting a youthful Price at the onset of the birth of a nation.

John Briceño, Leader of the Opposition

“On that historic day thirty years ago right here in our nation’s capital, our first prime minister the Honorable George Price said and I quote. “This symbolic transition to the independent state of Belize signifies the fulfillment of a decolonization which as a metropolitan country and founding member of the United Nations, the United Kingdom undertook to accomplish under the charter. Belize was the last British colony on the Central American mainland and the transition deserves the admiration and the support of all peaceful, freedom-loving nations. At our request and with our gratitude, the military presence of the United Kingdom will remain here for an appropriate time to be decided according to future circumstances—no longer as a colonial power, but as a welcomed partner. The United Kingdom has agreed to help us preserve and promote peace and well-being in our region. We continue our work—not only to build Belize to get greater levels of economic growth and social progress, but in doing so to remove causes of conflict and to corporate in the economic development of the region with all our neighbors in friendship, harmony and peace. As we become a member of the world committees, we hear the questions asked what is Belize and it’s people and how will they fit among you? In reply; Belize is a Caribbean and Central American nation which works and lives in revolution that is peaceful, constructive, new, progressive and Belizean.” This was George Price’s vision; this was the legacy he left us—the vision of a new and prosperous nation. In many ways, this vision remains in partial fulfillment. The next part is ours to achieve. Our generation must place our nation on the path to economic equality and sustainability. Always remember that in every Belizean is a resilient spirit—we never quit, we never give up. We always believe that there will be a better tomorrow. We know that when we work hard, do what is right and protect and respect each other; that we prosper. Our very anthem proclaims it so; for freedom comes tomorrow’s noon. Therefore, arise ye sons and daughters of Belize and let us do right by George Price to continue the work of building our beloved Belize. God bless us all and God bless Belize.”