But while today's meeting went smoothly, there was almost a protest in front of the National Assembly. That's because the UDP applied for a permit, but didn't get it. Instead, they received a permit to protest on Wednesday and Panton explained why they'll be in front of SSB when that time comes.
Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition
"There is a permit for Wednesday. We are calling on all Belizeans to join us on Wednesday at ten o'clock as we meet outside the Social Security Board. The board is meeting at 11, we understand. And of course, we look forward to having the support and inclusion of our union partners and all members of civil society."
Reporter
"Was the initial plan to protest today?"
Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition
"We had hoped to protest today. The permit was denied. Even though the Prime Minister speaks very boldly about the rights of citizens should be preserved and we have the right to protest, obviously, he would have preferred the protest not to happen today."
"They use the technicality in the law to deny us the permit, but that will not keep us quiet. We will be sure that our voices are heard at every occasion that we have."
Reporter
"Do you anticipate any charges stemming from the protests last week?"
Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition
"None at all, but if the charges come, we are prepared to deal with them because we cannot allow the voices of our citizens to be stifled when it is clear to all of us, but they say even blind eye Josie could see, that this is an attempt at blatant corruption by the Briceno administration."
"There is an inherent conflict of interest, and we have a right to express our concerns about that."
Reporter
"In that case, why didn't you protest today despite the rejection of the application?"
Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition
"We are a law-abiding party. We try to follow the rules. We try to be respectful of the institutional norms in this country. We are preparing to become the next government. And Wednesday, indeed, in Wednesday, we expect to have a large crowd assembled outside of SSB so that our voices can be heard."
