Following a heated exchange on live television between Alfonso Noble and Moses “Shyne” Barrow, acting U.D.P. Chairman Alberto August has announced the suspension of the morning show. August stated that such public confrontations will not be tolerated. However, Tracy Taegar-Panton argues that August cannot make this decision without proper consultation. Both Panton and attorney Sheena Pitts have weighed in on the dramatic on-air clash, adding to the ongoing tensions within the party.
Tracy Taegar-Panton, Leader of the Opposition
“I don’t want to be unkind to the former party leader, in fact I have a great deal of empathy for him, because what I saw on display this morning is indicative of why the delegates of this party and the standard bearers and caretakers felt compelled to convene a national convention on October twentieth. The Wave Radio and the Guardian Newspaper are the organs of the party that help us to do that work, in terms of keeping a functional democracy. It is not just Jules. All of us are a part of that process to hold an administration to account, to make sure we ventilate the national issues that are causing concern, and anxiety and strife to the Belizean people. The acting chair has issued a statement you say, that requires further discussion with other members of the leadership team before we can all be in agreement. What we do agree on is that the circus has come to an end. And this appetite for sensationalism that the media seems to gravitate to will not be entertained.”
Sheena Pitts, Attorney-at-law
“For the first time I can agree with the media that their antics and shenanigans being carried on by the former leader that could be properly characterized by the former leader, because this morning, I am told he was properly in full form with the red nose and colorful hair.”