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Poll Said Corruption Increasing, PM Says That's Just Perception
posted (October 1, 2024)
Last week we told you about the poll from Viking Strategies to sample Belizean public opinion on politics and the state of the country. While it's a detailed and lengthy poll, which found, for example, that, quote, "Corruption remains a major issue for Belizeans, with dissatisfaction over the handling of governance by both major political parties." - The PM discounted that, saying views like that have more to do with perception than reality.

And while he is perceived as among the most popular politicians, the good ole PM says it's things like washing the dishes at home that keep him grounded.

John Briceno, Prime Minister
"I have taken a look but have not had a chance to really sit down and study but things that jumped out to me overall are that people are happy with the government and that they believe that we've been doing a pretty good job, but like in everything, there's always more to be done. The issue of corruption, the numbers have gone down somewhat but people are still concerned about corruption and rightly so because it's just people's perceptions. In many instances, it's perception and it will take some time to be able to win back the people's full confidence and for corruption not to be in the top of their minds because they recognize that the country's going in the right direction for the first time since these polls are being conducted, the majority, more than 50% believe that we're going in the right direction, but yes, crime is an issue, we know that, corruption is always the perception there and it will take time for us to be able to address those issues."

Reporter:
"You are the most popular politician in the country, how do you take to that?"

John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Humbled but we just have to continue working, that's all I can say. Continue to work and continue to keep your foot grounded."

"I have to give credit to people like Rossana and Jaime and even my children because when I get home, Rossanna will tell me, well, today is your turn to wash dishes, so I have to wash dishes. And then I have close friends like Narda and Stewart and Eamon and them and Jaime who would always be calling my attention if they believe they see something is going wrong so you need people that can tell you, not everything is perfect. If you're doing something wrong that they can call you and I think that helps you to keep you grounded in politics."

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