CEO Takes Leave to Pursue Political Ambitions, Igniting Debate on Public Service Rules

Chief Executive Officer for Economic Development, Dr Osmond Martinez has taken leave from the public service effective Friday, May 10. His leave comes on the heels of his application to run for the Toledo East division under the People’s United Party.  Dr Martinez is among three men looking to become the next PUP Standard Bearer. Martinez’ campaign was officially launched over the weekend via a social media platform. According to Dr Martinez, his works in the south extend beyond his current campaign. His love for the Toledo East division comes from a place of childhood as he is a product of southern Belize. Since the announcement, many have questioned whether Martinez was required by the Public Service Regulation to resign from office. However, since he is a contract worker, Martinez is not subject to the regulations and serves at the pleasure of the Prime Minister. The window to submit applications closed on Friday and the PUP is looking to hold its convention on June 2, once the party’s senior officials vet the candidates.  PUP Chairman, Henry Charles Usher, was on The Morning Show today where he explained the process of choosing a standard bearer, and how the Toledo East seat is being treated separately and apart from the other 30 divisions for which the PUP is also fielding standard bearer applications.

While Usher was unable to delve into the party’s decision on Toledo East, he did note that the PUP accepts standard bearer applications every election cycle to ensure that it remains true to its democratic values. 

The other persons vying for the Toledo East seat under the PUP are Melhem Espat and Nicanor Requena.  From a national political landscape, the UDP has endorsed Dennis Williams as its standard bearer while businessman, Ray Coleman, has announced his entry as an independent candidate. Bi-elections for Toledo East are expected to happen by late July.