It was a tale of two countries at yesterday's official Independence Day ceremonies at the Memorial Park. As is the tradition, both Prime Minister Said Musa and Leader of the Opposition Dean Barrow spoke. For Barrow it is the worst of times; he spoke of a nation brought to its knees by reckless fiscal policies. But for the Prime Minister, it is the best of times; he urged Belizeans to embrace the challenges that we face. Which do you prefer? We'll give you a sampling of each.
Dean Barrow, Leader of the Opposition
"Securitization has done nothing for the masses, except put us deeper in hock to the extent where now the international agencies all confirm that Belize's national debt is fully 100 per cent of our 2.2 billion dollar GDP. The debt service burden is crippling us. We seem to have embarked on a local Ponzi scheme, where we have to rob especially the poor, to pay our rich international creditors.
Even in the middle of an SSB inquiry that too slowly grinds its way forward, there is new outrage at yet another indefensible use of worker funds. As for the DFC Commission of Inquiry, that is stalled, and no one knows for how long. But like justice, relief delayed is relief denied. Add to this the fact of generalized austerity, retrenchment in the public sector and contraction in the private sector and it is no wonder so much despair walks the land. That is why in so many of our neighbourhoods the sub-culture of violence is now regnant and the rule of the gun seems to hold complete sway."
Said Musa, Prime Minister of Belize
"On this Independence Day the message is that the cycle of development requires change and fiscal adjustment from time to time, but the work of development is not just about sound budgets and financial management. Development is not just about technocratic fixes. Let our Independence be reflective in the creation of confidence in one another and a caring for one another rather than in crusades of doubt and suspicion driven by irrational hate and distrust."
