BELIZE CITY, Tues. Feb. 11, 2020– On Sunday, at the United Democratic Party’s national convention, delegates swept Team Saldivar into the United Democratic Party (UDP) executive.
Yesterday, Monday, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Patrick Faber, who lost his bid for UDP leader, resigned from the Cabinet of Prime Minister Dean Barrow.
Today in Belmopan, Hon. Hugo Patt (Corozal North area representative) was sworn in as Deputy Prime Minister by Governor General Sir Colville Young. The signing ceremony took place at Belize House.
Given the uncertain political situation as a result of the disqualification of Hon. John Saldivar, who was elected UDP leader on Sunday, it is quite possible that Hon. Patt could emerge as the new UDP leader when Prime Minister Barrow goes into retirement prior to this year’s general elections.
That question was put to Hon. Patt today as he emerged from the swearing-in ceremony.
“We know that the UDP right now, is in a fluid state. The power relationship can change very suddenly and surprisingly. It’s an odd situation you find yourself in, where you have more political power than the party leader, John Saldivar. As the deputy prime minister, you’re the second in charge of the country,” 7News’ Jules Vasquez told Hon. Patt.
“I will tell you that I’ve always believed in team work and as I indicated, today is just formality, it’s just protocol. I don’t intend on being overpowered by anybody or do I intend to overpower anybody. I have always believed in the spirit of teamwork,” Hon. Patt responded.
“But I’m saying that is it unforeseeable that you may have to, for whatever period, assume the leadership of the UDP?” Vasquez pressed the Deputy Prime Minister.
Hon. Patt replied, “At this point in time, I think it’s too early for any assumption; that is your belief … I will respect that, but as I indicated, whatever transpires from now to the near future, it is to be determined by what evidence is present [in the US trial]. I don’t foresee any change in terms of the hierarchy position we have within our party. The Prime Minister has indicated as well, that he will not take any action unless something material comes out from what is being presented in the courts in Utah.”
Feature photo: Hon. Hugo Patt