The claim of un-democratic conventions arises from the recent public flap over the situation in Belize Rural North which will have an endorsement for Arthur Saldivar this weekend.

Jerome Wade wanted to challenge Saldivar, but he opted out of the convention when the party announced that it will be a closed convention, and only registered members of the PUP will be allowed to vote. That's 967 people,

this in a division of just under five thousand registered voters. Wade decided that the odds were unfairly stacked against him and decided - very unhappily - to step out.

Seems Silva and O'Brien also objected to the rash of endorsement conventions in Cayo South, Belize Rural North, Stann Creek West and Toledo East.

Silva told us today that he does not support endorsements and it is sad that the party is going back to business as usual. He said he can't be a part of it because he got back into the PUP for change, but it's the same old song. O'Brien - who has served on the executive for over two years - said he firmly believes he is not seeing the commitment toward change and that in a new era - the party has to be more inclusive and less exclusive.

And those strong views may be why the PUP is now taking a different tack. The party issued a lengthy release today stating that form here on it will quote, "facilitate the 'broad tent' approach for more openness and transparency, and greater participation and engagement."

That means that the regulars voters list will be used, after it is vetted by a committee including the candidates, to disqualify any known UDP supporters.

O'Brien had not seen the release but told us that the announcement is a clear positive reaction and a sign that the party is moving in the right direction. He said it quote "would not have happened if people like me had not stepped forward" and that he will, quote, "take some time to reflect on my decision."