Tonight we note the passing of former three-term representative for Dangriga, Dr Theordore Aranda. Aranda is a unique and singular historic figure in Belize: he was leader of the opposition at the time of Independence - after being one of only 5 UDP's elected in the 1979 elections. At the time, he had to publicly hold the opposition's hardline to oppose Independence. Decades later, speaking on PLUS TV - he discussed that fractious ear of politics - that had even the opposition divided against itself:
And, today in the wake of his passing Aranda was remembered by UDP colleague and friend Micheal Finnegan who told the press about the statesman, leader, and culture defender who that was Dr. Theodore Aranda:
Aranda was later ousted as Belize's first Leader of the opposition and went on to form his own third party, the Christian Democratic Party to contest the 1984 election. He lost in that election then joined the PUP where he won the seat in 1989, and then again in 1998.
Both parties have issued statements on Aranda, with the UDP saying, quote: "We thank Hon. Dr. Aranda for his service to the UDP and Belize as well as his activism on behalf of the Garifuna People." and the PUP saying, quote: "Throughout his life, he remained a key part of Belize's national development. He was a principled policymaker with a unique sense of compassion, kindness, and fairness and played an important role in the development of his community."
Aranda died on Sunday, July 10th at the age of 88.
