And that "difficult time in its history" refers to the PUP's historic losing streak. The party has not won a major election since 2003 - and has lost 9 major national elections in a row since then. After coming close in 2012 when the party came within 61 votes of forming the government, the PUP has lost ground, going from 14 seats in the House of Representatives, to 12, and now to 11.
So, Belize's grand old party is at a fragile juncture - and Fonseca's decision to step down unleashes all sorts of volatile energies - as various aspirants will jostle for leadership. It could further fracture an already divided party and Fonseca told the press today that he will try and manage an orderly transition:...
Hon. Francis Fonseca
"I certainly want to make sure that there is an orderly and smooth transition. So I will advise the chairman of the party to ensure that we put in place a structure to ensure that that smooth transition takes place over the next few weeks. Ultimately that process will end with the holding of a special convention at which there is the election of the new leader of the People's United Party."
Jules Vasquez
"They are concern that leaving so abruptly might create a fractious and divisive state within your party, in terms of those jumping to aspire. You mentioned an orderly exit. But really, it's hard to arrange that, because of the nature of power."
Hon. Francis Fonseca
"I will be there. I am not abandoning my party at all. I will be there. I will serve in whatever capacity I have to. In the interim as leader of the opposition if necessary - whatever capacity I need to do until a new leader is in place and I will certainly oversee the functions of the party until that new leader is in place. So there will be no void or no vacuum."
Fonseca says he will not play a role in any leadership contest - which should start to play out shortly.
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