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All those prerequisites help explain why Fred Martinez became the first ambassador with a strong UDP background to be appointed to a sensitive senior post by the PUP. Today Said Musa told us why he did it.

Rt. Hon. Said Musa - Appointed Fred Martinez As Ambassador to Guatemala
"Fred Martinez was considered a very outstanding diplomat. Even though he was a UDP, that didn't matter to me, certainly, because I knew that he would do a very commendable job, and he has done a great job."

Jules Vasquez
"Explain to me why you felt it so important to face the internal backlash in your own party and still go ahead with the choice of Fred Martinez?"

Rt. Hon. Said Musa
"Well, it did - yes, I must admit that it ruffled a few feathers in the party when he was appointed, but you have to bear in mind that I had also at that time - I made every effort to create a bi-partisan spirit on the Belize-Guatemala issue. And this, in a sense, was a part of that, to bring in the UDP - the Opposition, to make them realize that this is a national issue, and I believe that he was highly respected as a diplomat in Guatemala itself. And I think the Government has recognized that for many years, several Guatemalan governments has recognized the strength, dignity, and the great character of this Ambassador, Fred Martinez."

A state funeral is planned for Saturday in Orange Walk. There is still much more ahead on Fred Martinez tonight as you'll hear reaction to his passing from the PUP, the OAS and former Minister Eamon Courtenay.  That's coming, but first, here's the weather...