And finally tonight, the political parties are gearing up for municipal elections, and while Mayor Bernard Wagner is hoping for an endorsement - two others want his post, including his deputy. But, not so in the UDP which already has its mayoral candidate. Dr Nelma Jones Mortis appeared on Sunup on 7 this morning, where she spoke about women in politics, and why she thinks she'd make a good mayor for the city.
Dr. Nelma Jones Mortis, UDP Mayoral Candidate, Belize City
"I think we have to somewhat change the narrative for women in political leadership. Its comes from a socio cultural background where the research is showing that women don't want to enter it for many reasons, but one of the main reason would be because of the silent attacks and the personal attack on their lives and we are emotional beings. Nobody wants to go through an overhaul like that, but we can change that narrative, because on the flip side the research is also showing that when women enters the aspect of humanity's goal itself in terms health, education, literacy, it improves and I believe that is because we are nurturers. By evolution our brain is wired to preserve humanity, so we will come with that aspect to the table. So our opposite gender should recognize our worth around the table when decision making is made. Its good to have us at the table."
"I am pretty new to politics. However, my bio, if you reference it speaks for itself, but many can look at it and say that's pure academics. So I have to say to you that I come with the public servants background where I have worked in the field for umpteen number of years. I have even gone to study in the social landscape, more than social, because I look at the geographical too landscape of Belize City in and of itself. So I have a deep understanding of what our issues are and what is keeping us back as a city. However, I also come with a strong background in educational leadership. In leadership and of itself. I recently completed my doctoral in leadership and so I want to see how can put some of what I have learnt into practice."
