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Earlier you heard the Prime Minister’s comments on the latest developments on the diplomatic front between Belize and Guatemala. We met him in Orange Walk earlier this evening, but he was not there on official business. 

He was actually there in a sort of informal capacity, to attend the funeral service of the late Joe Briceño, a stalwart PUP, former Government Minister, and two time representative for Orange Walk. He is also happens to be the father of the now leader of the People’s United Party. 

Today, the Prime Minister and a few other UDP Ministers paid a courtesy visit to the Leader of the Opposition and attended his father’s funeral. Minister for Port Loyola even offered a few kind words to the late Briceno during the official funeral service. 

Today we spoke to the PM who told us that while He and the Briceno’s are political enemies, outside of that political arena is no space for animosity. And so today it was just right to join in honor the legacy of the late Briceno.

Rt. Hon Dean Barrow - Prime Minister of Belize
"We're here for two reasons. Number one because of Mr. Bricenos towering contributions to the progress and development of this nation when he was alive and when he was minister and we're also here out of respect for his son who's currently the leader of the opposition."

Emanuel Pech
"Now a lot of your members not only came here but they also presented some very kind words to the former PUP minister. What was the importance of having them say a few words, choice words about their former opponent?"

Rt. Hon Dean Barrow - Prime Minister of Belize
"Well again this an official funeral because Mr. Briceno was a member of government and so it was our duty to in fact offer words of remembrance with respect to his public life and contribution to the nation."

The funeral drew a large crowd.