Leader of the Opposition Leads Tenth Day Bram Despite Controversy

Once the ceremony, and the crowning and sashing of the reigning Miss Queen of the Bay were all done, the traditional Tenth Day Bram followed.  It is a jubilant time when residents dance through the streets of the old capital, waving the Belizean flag, and dressed up in red, white and blue.   This year was no different, except that it was led by the Leader of the Opposition, Moses Shyne Barrow.  While the Tenth Parade has often been categorized as an event dominated by the UDPs, the Saint George’s Committee issued a statement that frowned upon the politicizing of the holiday and the tenth bram.  The statement noted, quote, “While the Society is always appreciative of the participation of citizens in the parade, it notes with great dismay the use of partisan signs, flags, and banners in the parade.  Therefore, we take this opportunity to register our disappointment with such defiance of the Society’s policy, which is to create a celebration for ALL Belizeans to pay tribute to our forefathers.  The SGCDS maintains that the 10th parade must be free of partisan politics hence the reason we refer to it as a citizen’s parade where ALL Belizeans regardless of party affiliation can celebrate the victory of the Battle of St. George’s Caye without displaying partisanship. It is our hope that this does not occur again.”  End of quote.