"Mada fish!" - that's what Melvin Hulse might have said about the impressive turnout in yesterday's UDP convention in Stann Creek west. Of course, you wouldn't have heard him say that - at least not within hearing - because right about now after making libelous allegations against the UDP Leader and Frank Pawpa Mena - Hulse is in the background. But that didn't stop 3,153 voters from going out to yesterday's UDP Convention in Independence village to cast their vote. It's 50% more than came out for Hulse's Convention in March of 2014, and the turnout represents almost 40% of the registered voters in one of the biggest divisions in the country. We have video of the moment where the victor was declared.
Alberto August, Chairman - UDP
"This is the biggest convention that we have ever seen in the Stann Creek west constituency. In today's convention, a total of 3,153 ballots were cast, 3,153. Like I said the biggest convention ever in this constituency. Ivan Williams with 372 votes, Nathan Young with 1,209 and Walter Garbutt with 1,560 votes."
[Crowd chanting]
Ivan Williams - UDP aspirant - 372 votes
"The result I believe, do not regret the hard work that we put in but Mr. Walter I want to congratulate you."
Walter Garbutt, UDP Standard Bearer - SC West
"Thank you."
Nathan Young, UDP aspirant - 1,209 votes
"We gave it a good run. Guys, stay positive, stay focus and let us do the right thing."
Walter Garbutt, UDP Standard Bearer - SC West
"We must continue working on unity and we must develop this great district. This district that has so many industries contributes so much to Belize's economy and we need to along with a Prime Minister that I have tremendous respect for - we will be talking tomorrow and we will be seeking the very best for this great district."
Nathan Young - who lost by 345 votes was Melvin Hulse's Chairman and also Hulse's pick to be his replacement.
|
