Belize going to polls on March 17

Prime Minister Dean Barrow told the electorate that he was confident his government had done well and therefore deserved their trust. (Photo: carpetmagazine.net)

BELMOPAN, Belize, Wednesday February 1, 2012 - March 7, 2012 is Election Day in Belize.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow made the announcement yesterday, making the country the first in the Caribbean to face the polls for 2012.

During a lengthy announcement to the country, Mr. Barrow also announced that the National Assembly will be dissolved on Friday, February 3 and Nomination Day will be on February 17.

The announcement also means that the upcoming elections will be held simultaneously with the municipal and city elections around the country.

During his address, Mr. Barrow sought to give an account of the ruling United Democratic Party’s stewardship after coming into power in February 2008. “We have accomplished much in this first term. Acting always for the people and with the support of the people, our overall record is a stellar one,” he said during his address.

The prime minister stated that the government’s track record included it being able to maintain consistent economic growth, give income tax relief to employees on fixed salaries and write off almost 15, 000 mortgages allowing those families to own their homes free and clear.

However, he told citizens that despite government’s achievements there were those who still continued to assault its policies and efforts. “We reject that and know they are wrong. But as proof we want a clear reaffirmation now of the mandate for us to continue and expand our mission. We want you to arm us and support us so we can tell the world that there will be no turning back,” he urged.

Mr. Barrow told the electorate that he was confident his government had done well and therefore deserved their trust.

However, he appealed to them that while the elections and municipals were on the same day, to allow the country’s record for peaceful elections continue. “I appeal to all political parties and candidates to ensure that we maintain that record,” he said. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)