Belize Unveils Monument Honoring First Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. George Cadle Price

September 23, 2024
by Larry Waight +

On the evening of September 18, in a moment of national pride, the Government of Belize, in collaboration with the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), revealed a statue honoring the country’s first Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. George Cadle Price. The statue, now standing tall in Battlefield Park, Belize City, pays homage to the leader who is revered as the “Father of the Nation.”

During the unveiling ceremony, Henry Charles Usher, Party Chairman of the People’s United Party (PUP), spoke on the enduring symbolism of statues, stating, “Statues serve as powerful symbols that keep the memory of great individuals alive. They remind us of their lasting contributions and inspire us to uphold the values they embodied.”

The life-sized statue captures Price in a moment of action, holding The Belize Times newspaper, his arm outstretched toward the future, reinforcing the paper’s motto: “The truth shall make you free.” Usher further noted, “This monument stands as a beacon of pride for all Belizeans, a tribute to Price’s vision and leadership that led our country to independence.”

George Cadle Price’s journey from Belize City mayor (1956-1962) to leader of the People’s United Party, and ultimately the first Prime Minister of an independent Belize in 1981, solidified his place in the country’s history. His influence has extended beyond his time in office, inspiring both those who knew him personally and generations who came after.

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At the event, Belize City’s Deputy Mayor Allan Pollard reflected on Price’s remarkable legacy, stating, “Though I never had the chance to walk alongside him, the stories of his diplomacy and humble dedication to social justice have always captivated me. His example continues to inspire.”

The statue itself, designed by renowned artist Stephen Okeke, features Price in his iconic Guayabera shirt, slacks, and dress shoes. Okeke began work on the piece in mid-2023, crafting it to represent not only Price’s image but also his indelible impact on the nation. The monument now stands as a symbol of Belizean resilience and the enduring legacy of a leader who shaped the course of the nation’s history.

This new addition to Belize City is more than just a statue; it is a tribute to Price’s lifetime of service and a lasting reminder of the values and vision he championed, ensuring that his memory continues to inspire future generations.