And finally, from today's UDP press conference, we asked Opposition Leader Shyne Barrow for his views on the churches' progress in their push to trigger a national referendum on Marijuana Legalization in Belize.
During yesterday's submission of the petition to the Governor-General, the UDP's Denny Grijalva featured prominently as one of the religious leaders that have collected 20,000 signatures for the referendum petition. He told us that he provided the churches with approximately 5,000 signatures from UDP supporters who want a referendum.
So, what does "Shyne" Barrow think about that? As viewers know, he has publicly supported the government on its legalization agenda. Here's what he had to say today:
Daniel Ortiz
"Pastor Denny Grijalva, I didn't know he was a pastor."
Moses "Shyne" Barrow - Leader of Opposition
"I didn't know either."
Daniel Ortiz
"He provided some of the 5,000 UDP-friendly petitioners who want to see legalization litigated through a referendum. What do you all make of the fact that they've [the Churches] progress thus far on that topic?"
Moses "Shyne" Barrow
"Well, as far as the referendum is concerned, the United Democratic Party did offer our support for the churches if it is, in fact, that they feel that the way to decide this pressing matter was through a referendum. I personally support the legalization of marijuana, but the United Democratic Party is not monolithic. We're not homogeneous. We have a diverse pool of people, personalities, and beliefs. And I believe this is an issue where there is room for distinct opinions and beliefs. And so, I have no difficulty with Mr. Grijalva participating in his passion for a referendum. I do not - If there is a referendum, I will - at that point, I believe I will campaign for 'yes' to legalization, and I will use all of my powers to campaign for a 'yes' to legalization. And again, I will still hold that the party will take a position that it is a conscience decision. From top to bottom, all leaders are allowed to decide what they feel is best for themselves and their constituents."
