If Belize had a fortune 500, his name would probably be in the top three – and from tonight onwards, you can call Barry Bowen, “Sir Barry.” That’s right, Belize’s bottling and beverage magnate has been designated for knighthood. It’s part of the queen’s New Year’s honors that were announced in the London Gazette of Friday 28th December. But apart from the prestige it affords to one of Belize’s wealthiest men, the Bowen knighthood also has some political bearing. That’s because such choice plums are very limited and thus the preserve of only government’s most special friends, such as Michael Ashcroft who got the last one.
And Bowen who has been known as a hearty campaign contributor to the pup in the past, seemed to have switched loyalties in the 2003 town boards when he was clearly and materially supportive of the UDP slate in his home-town of San Pedro. But now political observers take this quite grand gesture as a sure sign that there is now some détente - if not open coddling - with the Musa administration.
And while that knighthood is a story unto itself, also receiving New Year’s honors are a team of law enforcement and military all stars including Gerald Westby who will get an OBE along with Brigadier General Lloyd Gillett, while Senior Superintendent Yolanda Murray and Assistant Commissioner Crispin Jeffries will get MBEs. Physicist Arlie Petters will also get an MBE.
