Court Date Set for Contempt Charges Against Tracy Panton Amidst Political Tensions and Election Speculation

The court date for the hearing of contempt charges made against Tracy Panton has been confirmed to take place next Friday, February 14.  It is hearing that was requested by the UDP Leader, Moses Shyne Barrow, following what he coins as Panton going against the court ruling.  Barrow had filed an application for urgency, asking that the court expedites the hearing on the contempt charges so as to avoid further confusion as the campaigns roll out for the general elections.  Meanwhile, Panton had her attorney write to the Barrow’s lawyer, Dr Christopher Malcolm, indicating that she would rather go to mediation to settle the party feuds.  It is yet to be confirmed if Barrow has responded to that request or if he will await the court hearing next week.  In related news, one local media blog has begun spreading reports that a decision has been made by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) regarding the use of the color red in the general elections.  While no decisions have been made by the commission, the blog has indicated that both the UDP and the Alliance for Democracy would be allowed to use the color red on the ballot papers with a differentiation made through the use of symbols.  Love News reached out to a senior official at the Elections and Boundaries Department who indicated that the commission has not made any decisions in this regard.  Also debunking the report is UDP’s Deputy Chairman, Alberto August, who sits on the Elections and Boundaries Commission.  August noted that, “Here are the fact from a Member of the Elections & Boundaries Commission who sat at the table at yesterday’s meeting of the Commission.  The assignment of colors was on the agenda and discussed at length during the meeting. While several options were discussed, the Commission ultimately and unanimously agreed that, in accordance with Section 15 (4) of the Third Schedule (Election Rules) of the Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9 of the Laws of Belize, the Commission will undertake consultation with the affected political parties contesting the election before a final decision is taken.”