2025-04-24 - Channel 5 Belize

Panton Claps Back: ‘We Won’t Be Distracted’

Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton has called for unity and renewed focus as the party begins its post-election rebuilding efforts.

In a message to supporters, Panton reassured the United Democratic Party (UDP) base that despite recent setbacks and ongoing leadership disputes, the party is committed to moving forward and regaining the trust of the Belizean people.

“We will not be distracted. We will not listen to the noise but rather spend our time and attention on rebuilding the UDP from the ground up,” Panton stated.

The statement comes after Moses “Shyne” Barrow issued a statement in which he said that he returns as the leader of the UDP. Barrow said, “As my term does not expire until the National Convention to be scheduled this year, 2025, at your request, I will continue to serve you as Party Leader to ensure the continuity and strengthening of our great UDP!”

Panton also stressed the need for unity and active participation, saying that “rebuilding takes time and effort… It requires ALL hands on deck.” She reiterated the importance of holding the current administration accountable to ensure full transparency and proper governance.

Panton also announced the UDP’s first official press conference since the 2025 general elections. The event is scheduled for next Tuesday and will address key national issues.

Shyne Barrow Says He Returns as Leader of the UDP

Moses “Shyne” Barrow says he remains leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP). This comes after he resigned following his defeat in the March 2025 general elections.

In a press release, Barrow said, “As my term does not expire until the National Convention to be scheduled this year, 2025, at your request, I will continue to serve you as Party Leader to ensure the continuity and strengthening of our great UDP!”

According to Barrow, the UDP has gone “dormant, with no attempt at unity, no compliance with the Party Constitution, no adherence to procedures and structures of the Party, no vision or resources to take the Party forward. I am compelled to accept your call for me to continue as Party Leader until the next National Convention as was my original position.”

“I am compelled to accept your call for me to continue as party leader until the next national convention, as was my original position.” 

Barrow’s resignation on March 17 came after losing his Mesopotamia seat to fellow UDP member Lee Mark Chang.

Tracy Panton, who claimed leadership following an October 2024 ‘unity convention’, was sworn in as Leader of the Opposition on March 14.

However, the legitimacy of Panton’s leadership has been contested by Barrow, leading to ongoing legal battles. Barrow’s attorney argued that Panton’s convention violated the UDP’s constitution, asserting that she lacked the authority to call for it and was not a party member at the time.

Belizean Man Missing in Quintana Roo

The State Attorney General’s Office of Quintana Roo is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 29-year-old William Javier Cruz Milán, who has been reported missing since April 19, 2025. He was last seen in the town of Sabidos, located in the municipality of Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo.

Cruz Milán, a Belizean national, is described as having a slim build, fair complexion, and short straight black hair. He has large dark brown eyes and stands approximately 1.50 metres tall, weighing around 55 kilograms. A distinguishing feature is a tattoo of the Virgin of Guadalupe on his right shoulder.

Authorities filed the official missing persons report on April 22. At the time of his disappearance, there was no information available about the clothes he was wearing.

The State Attorney General’s Office urges anyone with information about William Javier Cruz Milán’s whereabouts to come forward. Members of the public can contact the authorities at (983) 835 0050, extension 1132.

“Help him return home!” reads the message on the official alert.