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As we have reported, the Chamber of Commerce issued a statement criticizing both the PUP and UDP for not effectively addressing the crime situation in Belize. The release states "(crime) statistics show a national problem that has escalated under PUP and UDP administrations alike. The BCCI now calls on parliamentarians on both sides to live up to their oaths of office." Well the PUP party leader says it makes no sense pointing fingers but it more productive to work together on this national issue.

Hon. John Briceno- PUP Leader
"Well, first of all I need to point out that it was never as bad as it was when we were in government. I don't think it reached a hundred murders. And that is nothing to boast about, please, let me make it abundantly clear. One murder is one too much. But it was never to where it was right now; one. Secondly we need to point out also to the Chamber that the issue of crime is not just the politicians alone but it also includes the private sector. What are they doing? Are they helping us in the South Side? Are they trying to see how we can improve the lives of the people in South Side? It is something that affects every single one of us, not only the politicians nor the business people but the churches and social partners, all of us. I have been saying it over and over, extending our hand to the government that we are prepared to work with them on Guatemala and on the issue of crime. Every time we reach out our hands, they slap it down. Just the last time when I spoke about it, Mr. Aragon, you know I would have thought that you would have gotten up and said, 'well, you know thank you for what you are saying and let's meet and...' absolutely nothing. The present minister, he had some consolations and invited all sorts of people in Belize City. The People's United Party was never invited. We have to stop playing politics with this issue."