For the past two weeks since Francis Fonseca stepped down - we've been telling you about the men who are considering offering themselves for the post of leader of the PUP. They are John Briceno, Cordel Hyde, Julius Espat and Kareem Musa. But, what if they were to be joined by a woman? Well, that would be a first, because no woman has ever offered herself for leadership of, or led any political party in Belize. But, it could happen. PUP Senator Lisa Shoman told us she is seriously entertaining the possibility of making a bid for leadership of the PUP. Shoman pointed out that she was the first female president of the bar, the first female ambassador to the OAS and the USA, and the first female minister of foreign affairs. And while she might beat the boys in "firsts", and in a debate, we pointed out to Shoman she would have a hard time matching them in political alliances, and resources. She said that's an assumption and an untested assertion.
Of course, it would be further complicated because she is not an elected representative - and has never run as a candidate in a general election. But, we note that twice before, Belize has had unelected party leaders who are not the leader of the opposition in the House; it happened with Manuel Esquivel in 1983 to 1984 and George Price from 1984 to 1989.
All candidates for leader have until December 15 to be nominated - so we'll keep watching it.
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