Prime Minister shares ‘shock’ at Mike Espat passing and party condolences; ‘too early’ for discussion on succession

Published by BBNTEAM at April 25, 2024

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Posted: Thursday, April 25, 2024. 9:11 am CST.

By Aaron Humes: Prime Minister John Briceño says he could not have expected his meeting with Minister of State and Toledo East area representative Mike Espat last week Monday would have been his last.

Within a week, despite not appearing unhealthy to his boss, he died of a heart attack at the age of 75 on Monday. He had been suffering various health problems related to a traffic accident as well as a bout of COVID-19 around the 2020 general elections.

The P.M. said they had been discussing his concerns about Toledo East as Espat planned to hand out land titles this week – and that was typical of a man who lived for his constituency and his people. Before entering politics he served as a schoolteacher and principal.

The funeral is planned for next week in Punta Gorda Town and will be an ‘official funeral’ – an honor the P.M. said is accorded to officials as opposed to Heads of State such as Governor-General Dame Minita Gordon. Formal details are still to be announced.

And as for succession, the P.M. said talk about that can wait until after the funeral even as a by-election looms in 90 days or less; contenders likely include son Melhem Espat and CEO Dr Osmond Martinez among others.

The People’s United Party (PUP) issued its formal condolences earlier this week, hailing “Iron Mike” as an outstanding Belizean, educator, and businessman. It added that “During this time of mourning, the Party reflects with thanks and gratitude on the lifelong service Hon. Mike Espat gave to both Party and country. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with the Espat family during this time of bereavement…May the soul of the late Hon. Michael Espat rest in peace and rise in glory!”

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