Untitled Document And keeping it in Orange Walk, while the PM was in OW Central, the other three PUP standard bearers were celebrating their nominations in their respective constituencies. Our colleagues from CTV3 spoke to them and Courtney Menzies has this story.
PUP's candidates in Orange Walk South, East, and North were surrounded by supporters as they were nominated in their respective division yesterday. Like in the other districts, the energy was electric and even though this isn't the first rodeo for these standard bearers, they said it was just as thrilling.
Jose Mai, PUP Standard Bearer, Orange Walk South
"I've had this feeling for the 5th time now. It's a wonderful feeling, there's no turning back. From now on, it's onward until victory."
"I've never thought that I have a weak opponent. I think that we have to work because we have a tough opponent. And so we're determined to do that, but everybody's happy, this is a great moment for us."
Kevin Bernard, PUP Standard Bearer, Orange Walk East
"It's a feeling of excitement, you know when it comes to these moments, it's always exciting especially to see the number of support you have and the support for the PUP. I am ready, the people of Orange Walk East are ready and I'm very confident in the end of the day on March 12th the people of Orange Walk East will once again elect their humble servant and the PUP across this country."
Ramon Cervantes, PUP Standard Bearer, Orange Walk North
"It's a feeling of elation and excitement and sensationalism and all the good feelings in the world. Good vibrations out there with the beautiful people of Orange Walk North out here today."
The three candidates are all confident their individual work speaks for itself. For the incumbent Minister of Agriculture, he's hoping he get to walk into the same office on March 13th.
Jose Mai, PUP Standard Bearer, Orange Walk South
"The people of Orange Walk South depend on agriculture, directly or indirectly and once the agriculture is strong then they have money, they have purchasing power, they are happy."
"The Prime Minister is the Prime Minister and he decides which portfolio. I'm pretty convinced that he's satisfied with the work I have done in agriculture and that he may want to put me as Minister of Agriculture again, among other things. But I'm confident he's satisfied with the great work we've done in the ministry."
In Orange Walk East, there are two UDP candidates, but Bernard isn't too worried about them. Both he and his northern colleague expressed the same sentiments - much like reading off a script - that the PUP's work in the health and infrastructure sector will secure their victories.
Reporter:
"Any comments on your challengers?"
Kevin Bernard, PUP Standard Bearer, Orange Walk East
"I rather not comment on them, but all I could say is I am focused on winning this election, I am not winning any opponent. As I said in Belize City, whoever they bring, we will ensure we have one of the biggest victories for the PUP in Orange Walk East and that is a guarantee."
Ramon Cervantes, PUP Standard Bearer, Orange Walk North
"We have a good machinery, they're full of energy, very well motivated, and we are going into this election with very high spirits and our people I have been visiting and the response has been good in the homes, in the streets, in the panades shop, in the salbutes shop, you know everywhere the vibe is positive and so I am confident that on March 12th, our machinery will work to achieve the victory for the PUP and your humble servant."
