Michael “Iron Mike” Espat Laid to Rest  

Six-time Area Representative for Toledo East Mike Espat was laid to rest over the weekend. A state funeral was held in honor of the late People’s United Party politician in Punta Gorda. Family, friends, members of parliament and residents from his constituency were all present to remember his life and service to the nation. Both Prime Minister John Briceño and Leader of the Opposition, Moses “Shyne” Barrow shared memories of Espat. Here is more from the funeral.

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“We are here to honor the memory of a man whose life was rich in years, whose career was filled with accomplishments and whose calling was to serve Toledo East and his country. There has never been a political career here in the south quite like Espat’s. And unless someone can tell me different, the Honorable Michael Joseph Espat lived his life and served the good people for Toledo on his terms. To paraphrase the song that was just sung and made famous by Sinatra, Mike did it his way. To Mike’s family and friends, the people of Toledo East and to the members of my party I extend a heartfelt condolence on this tremendous loss. The honorable Michael Jospeh Espat was born on September 1947. Those were different days, we sung God Save the Queen as our anthem and the Union Jack flew over the courthouse here in Punta Gorda.”

 

Moses “Shyne” Barrow, Leader of the Opposition

“Members of Cabinet, particularly the Honorable Julius Espat. I know that was your first cousin, my cousin too, we established that. Melhem vouched for it, Luke vouched for it, but I feel your pain my brother and you keep being that emotional leader you are. Belize needs that. May you find comfort in the Lord. But most importantly the beloved family of the honorable Micheal Joseph Espat. My heart felt condolences to all of you on behalf of the opposition, United Democratic party. There are no words I can utter that will alleviate your grief. But as I said when we paid tribute to “Iron Mike” in the National Assembly, may you the family be comforted by the fact that brother Mike’s soul journeys armed with the good deeds he has done throughout his illustrious career as a servant to the people of Toledo East.”