I can feel it that our brothers and sisters in Belize will follow the same way as Jamacia, Barbados and the Bahamas as they go to the polls today... I feel they will change to a new govenment.. I will keep you posted....

BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The two main political parties here say they are confident of winning the February 7 general elections.

The ruling People’s United Party (PUP) and the main United Democratic Party (UDP) on Thursday nominated candidates for all 31 seats at stake in the elections.


Three other political parties - the National Reform Party (NRP), the National Belizean Alliance (NBA) and the Vision Inspired by the People (VIP) – are also contesting the polls, but political observers say the race is between the PUP of Prime Minister Said Musa and the UDP headed by attorney Dean Barrow.


Musa said that he is confident that his PUP would be returned to power saying “the energy is very high, the momentum is strong, the tide has turned.


“I believe the People’s United Party is on the move for another great victory. I feel very confident that with the hard work , with the continuing our house to house campaign, reaching the people, addressing their needs and their aspirations, that is how we’re gonna win.”

Musa said that his party, seeking an unprecedented third term in office, would inform voters of its accomplishments over the past five years.


“In terms of infrastructural development, in terms of bringing water supplies to our people particularly in the rural communities, in terms of expanding electricity; but I would say the signal achievement of the PUP over the last five years has been the cultural development that has taken place.

“We have seen a flourishing of culture, we are seeing a positive development in our people expressing their identity, celebrating our differences. I would say that has been the major accomplishment of the PUP,” he added.


But Barrow, speaking to reporters after his party’s candidates were nominated, said that he was “extremely confident” of victory.



“We feel extremely grateful because people are showing their support so openly. We are really very, very pleased. Morale is at a tremendous, all time high for us.”



“Once we win, our test will be to deliver for people regardless of the reasons why they elected us. So in the final analysis it all will come down to the United Democratic Party being able to implement its agenda, being able to demonstrate to people that in fact it is giving them what it has promised, which basically is good governance and economic progress,” Barrow said.

Former prime minister Manuel Esquivel said the UDP could be heading for a resounding victory.



“The only way we could lose is if it’s stolen and there’ll be some of that but we have to keep it under control.”

Meanwhile, both the PUP and the UDP have pledged to maintain peace during the campaign, but media reports say at least in one incident over the weekend, gunshots were fired at PUP supporters returning from a rally in San Ignacio.

One of the supporters said that bullets had been fired at the bus taking them back to Toledo.



CMC

Word from the vote in Balize.....

Polls are some how showing a high voter turn out.. but to the surprise of many....the ruling People’s United Party seems to be in the lead, and the Opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) seems to be behind.

More to come... Later..

AND I was praying for a change....The PUP won the elections, with Musa continuing as Prime Minister. ...

AND I was praying for a change....The PUP won the elections, with Musa continuing as Prime Minister. ... NOT TRUE, THE OPPOSITION WON,NEW GOVERNMENT IN BELIZE

NOT TRUE, THE OPPOSITION WON,NEW GOVERNMENT IN BELIZE

I second this. The Opposition Party won...


New Prime Minister Designate to be sworn in

Belmopan - 08 February, 2008
Prime Minister designate, Hon. Dean Oliver Barrow, will be sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Belize today.

The official swearing-in ceremonies will be held at Belize House (Office of the Governor-General) commencing at 2 o’clock this afternoon. The rest of the Government officials are scheduled to be sworn in on Monday 11th February, 2008 also at Belize House, Belmopan.

http://www.governmentofbelize.gov.bz/press_release_details.php?pr_id=4833

I second this. The Opposition Party won...
New Prime Minister Designate to be sworn in
Belmopan - 08 February, 2008
Prime Minister designate, Hon. Dean Oliver Barrow, will be sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Belize today.
The official swearing-in ceremonies will be held at Belize House (Office of the Governor-General) commencing at 2 o’clock this afternoon. The rest of the Government officials are scheduled to be sworn in on Monday 11th February, 2008 also at Belize House, Belmopan.
http://www.governmentofbelize.gov.bz/press_release_details.php?pr_id=4833.. and I thought that no one was paying attention to this thread... good ..... my soures was a few supporters of the the outgoing government...

.. and I thought that no one was paying attention to this thread... good ..... my soures was a few supporters of the the outgoing government...

Dont tell me the Belizians have problems counting too!!!!:angel:

This is something to note. There is a widespread change of government throughout The Bahamas and the Caribbean. Even in places in which governments were expected to remain and in places in which the economy was said to be too good to cause indifference towards the governance administrations. these include us in The Bahamas and Barbados, I think even Belize.

But also taking from the Economist article, that there is a widespread crime problem in just about every country. It seems like no country in the region has had a government that can take care of crime.

The only anomally so far is Trinidad and Tobago.

The only anomally so far is Trinidad and Tobago.

http://www.knowprose.com/node/175
http://www.guardian.co.tt/archives/2004-06-03/chamber-column.html
http://www.benbest.com/lifeext/murder.html

SAFETY AND SECURITY: American citizens traveling to or residing in Trinidad and Tobago should avoid large crowds and demonstrations. While non-violent demonstrations occur on occasion, widespread civil disorder is not typical.The downtown area of Port of Spain experienced four bombings in 2005.While no similar incidents have occurred since that time, the perpetrator(s) have not been arrested and their identities and motive remain unknown.Americans living or visiting Port of Spain are advised to exercise caution, especially in crowded urban areas.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, including the Worldwide Caution Travel Alert, can be found.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.

CRIME: Incidents of violent crime have been steadily on the rise on both islands. Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago should exercise caution and good judgment, as in any large urban area, particularly when traveling after dark from Trinidad's Piarco Airport. There have been incidents involving armed robbers trailing arriving passengers from the airport and then accosting them outside the gates of their residences. Areas to avoid in Trinidad include Laventille, Morvant, Sea Lots, South Belmont, scenic rest stops, walking across the Queen’s Park Savannah, and downtown Port of Spain (after dark), as tourists are particularly vulnerable to pick pocketing and armed assaults in these locations. Holiday periods, especially Christmas and Carnival, often see an increase in criminal activity.

Violent crimes, including assault, kidnapping for ransom, sexual assault and murder, have involved foreign residents and tourists, including U.S. citizens. The perpetrators of many these crimes have not been arrested.

Burglaries of private residences are common. Robbery is a risk, particularly in urban areas and especially near ATMs and shopping malls. Visitors should avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large amounts of money in public. One victim was targeted for driving an expensive new car. In some cases, robberies of Americans have turned violent and resulted in injuries after the victim resisted handing over valuables.

In Tobago, the media have reported an increase in the incidence of violent crimes. While local authorities have announced increased measures to fight crime, the U.S. Embassy advises that when making reservations at private accommodations, visitors should ensure that 24-hour security is provided. There have been reports of home invasions in the Mt. Irvine area, and robberies occurring on isolated beaches in Tobago. Visitors to Tobago should ensure that all villas or private homes have adequate security measures.

Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago are also advised to be cautious when visiting isolated beaches or scenic overlooks where robberies can occur. In particular, we advise against visiting the Ft. George scenic overlook in Port of Spain because of lack of security and a number of recent armed robberies at that site. Tourists at La Brea Pitch Lake in South Trinidad were targets of criminals in 2004 and 2005. Visitors should not walk alone or in unfamiliar areas. Valuables left unattended on beaches and in other public places are vulnerable to theft. Visitors should avoid neighborhoods known for high crime rates. When in doubt, consult the establishment where you are staying to identify areas to be avoided.

Taxis available at the major hotels or through pre-arranged pick-ups with reputable companies are generally safe and reliable. The U.S. Embassy urges caution in the use of the small buses or vans in Trinidad, known as "Maxi Taxis" (full-size inter-city buses are usually safe). Unmarked shared taxis authorized to pick up passengers will have the letter 'H' as the first letter on their license plates. Some shared taxis and maxi taxis have been linked to petty crime and serious traffic accidents. Valuables including travel documents should not be left unattended in parked cars, especially in parking lots, as several thefts have been reported.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1043.html

http://www.ttgapers.com/modules/PNphpBB2/files/kidnap-stats1.jpg

http://www.knowprose.com/node/175
http://www.guardian.co.tt/archives/2004-06-03/chamber-column.html
http://www.benbest.com/lifeext/murder.html
SAFETY AND SECURITY: American citizens traveling to or residing in Trinidad and Tobago should avoid large crowds and demonstrations. While non-violent demonstrations occur on occasion, widespread civil disorder is not typical.The downtown area of Port of Spain experienced four bombings in 2005.While no similar incidents have occurred since that time, the perpetrator(s) have not been arrested and their identities and motive remain unknown.Americans living or visiting Port of Spain are advised to exercise caution, especially in crowded urban areas.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, including the Worldwide Caution Travel Alert, can be found.
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.
CRIME: Incidents of violent crime have been steadily on the rise on both islands. Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago should exercise caution and good judgment, as in any large urban area, particularly when traveling after dark from Trinidad's Piarco Airport. There have been incidents involving armed robbers trailing arriving passengers from the airport and then accosting them outside the gates of their residences. Areas to avoid in Trinidad include Laventille, Morvant, Sea Lots, South Belmont, scenic rest stops, walking across the Queen’s Park Savannah, and downtown Port of Spain (after dark), as tourists are particularly vulnerable to pick pocketing and armed assaults in these locations. Holiday periods, especially Christmas and Carnival, often see an increase in criminal activity.
Violent crimes, including assault, kidnapping for ransom, sexual assault and murder, have involved foreign residents and tourists, including U.S. citizens. The perpetrators of many these crimes have not been arrested.
Burglaries of private residences are common. Robbery is a risk, particularly in urban areas and especially near ATMs and shopping malls. Visitors should avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large amounts of money in public. One victim was targeted for driving an expensive new car. In some cases, robberies of Americans have turned violent and resulted in injuries after the victim resisted handing over valuables.
In Tobago, the media have reported an increase in the incidence of violent crimes. While local authorities have announced increased measures to fight crime, the U.S. Embassy advises that when making reservations at private accommodations, visitors should ensure that 24-hour security is provided. There have been reports of home invasions in the Mt. Irvine area, and robberies occurring on isolated beaches in Tobago. Visitors to Tobago should ensure that all villas or private homes have adequate security measures.
Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago are also advised to be cautious when visiting isolated beaches or scenic overlooks where robberies can occur. In particular, we advise against visiting the Ft. George scenic overlook in Port of Spain because of lack of security and a number of recent armed robberies at that site. Tourists at La Brea Pitch Lake in South Trinidad were targets of criminals in 2004 and 2005. Visitors should not walk alone or in unfamiliar areas. Valuables left unattended on beaches and in other public places are vulnerable to theft. Visitors should avoid neighborhoods known for high crime rates. When in doubt, consult the establishment where you are staying to identify areas to be avoided.
Taxis available at the major hotels or through pre-arranged pick-ups with reputable companies are generally safe and reliable. The U.S. Embassy urges caution in the use of the small buses or vans in Trinidad, known as "Maxi Taxis" (full-size inter-city buses are usually safe). Unmarked shared taxis authorized to pick up passengers will have the letter 'H' as the first letter on their license plates. Some shared taxis and maxi taxis have been linked to petty crime and serious traffic accidents. Valuables including travel documents should not be left unattended in parked cars, especially in parking lots, as several thefts have been reported.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1043.html
http://www.ttgapers.com/modules/PNphpBB2/files/kidnap-stats1.jpg

That is why I called it an anomally. Trinidad has a high crime rate, even though it has a favorable economic outlook despite things like inflation, but their government has been given yet another term.

http://www.knowprose.com/node/175
http://www.guardian.co.tt/archives/2004-06-03/chamber-column.html
http://www.benbest.com/lifeext/murder.html
[I][I]SAFETY AND SECURITY: American citizens traveling to or residing in Trinidad and Tobago should avoid large crowds and demonstrations. While non-violent demonstrations occur on occasion, widespread civil disorder is not typical.The downtown area of Port of Spain experienced four bombings in 2005.While no similar incidents have occurred since that time, the perpetrator(s) have not been arrested and their identities and motive remain unknown.
These yankees could lie aye, the group responsible was the Jamaat al Muslimeen, they also tried a coup some years back.

CRIME: Incidents of violent crime have been steadily on the rise on both islands. Visitors to Trinidad and Tobago should exercise caution and good judgment, as in any large urban area, particularly when traveling after dark from Trinidad's Piarco Airport. There have been incidents involving armed robbers trailing arriving passengers from the airport and then accosting them outside the gates of their residences. Areas to avoid in Trinidad include Laventille, Morvant, Sea Lots, South Belmont, scenic rest stops, walking across the Queen’s Park Savannah, and downtown Port of Spain (after dark), as tourists are particularly vulnerable to pick pocketing and armed assaults in these locations. Holiday periods, especially Christmas and Carnival, often see an increase in criminal activity.[/QUOTE]
They musse mean decrease cuz carnival is the time when people is stop the foolishness


http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1043.html
http://www.ttgapers.com/modules/PNphpBB2/files/kidnap-stats1.jpg[/QUOTE]
Why they dont tell ya who doing the kidnapping (the police). Its like a revenge ting

But crime is crime though, no matter who's doing it no matter why. Should we nullify statistics just because.......some "different" group is doing it?