Shameful Philloughby hides during 16 days of activism

Philloughby is hiding in shame

Belize City, November 29, 2011

The 16 days of Activism is a time for society to re-visit the strides made and challenges facing the protection of citizens against violence and abuse. The protection of women, especially, is the focus for they are mostly the victims of abuse. It is also a time when abusers ought to hang their heads low unless they are prepared to rehabilitate, and so it begs the question: where is the UDP Belize City Councillor who was once detained for violently attacking his wife, and why has justice not been served.

Ever since the case of alleged abuse was exposed by the BELIZE TIMES during the height of this year’s patriotic month, Councillor Phillip Willoughby has gone into hiding. He can’t be found at City Hall, but has been spotted racing through the city streets in his tinted gas-guzzling SUV like a bandit running away from the law. As the nation sheds emphasis on activism against domestic violence, Willoughby must come forward and admit his wrongdoing.

To hit a woman is plain and simply shameless and the People’s United Party stands in solidarity with women’s right activists in decrying such acts. This is why Willoughby must not get away so easily.

On the night of Friday September 23rd, a young mother suffered from domestic bullying at the hands of the UDP Councillor. As reported by the victim, but hidden by the UDP, she had received a text message which tripped off the arrogant UDP politician. The victim’s original statement to the Police obtained by the BELIZE TIMES states that the UDP councillor grabbed the phone away and when she got it back, he ran behind her pulling her by her hair. All of this happened in front of their small son.

She was thrown to the ground and beaten. Concerned neighbours heard screams and called the Police. This led to Willoughby’s arrest and detention for a night.

None of this has ever been reported by the UDP. They are a political party which upholds the abuse of women, which is why even important women’s rights groups such as Women Issues Network (WIN-Belize) have boycotted their newspaper organ. Their abusive ways have been exposed many times, and part of the reason UDP Ministers can sit by as Belizeans suffer en masse.

But back to dishonourable Philloughby. He eventually convinced the victim not to press charges and was released the morning after, even though a medical doctor classified the injuries as harm. The UDP then interfered and threatened everyone at the Police Station to keep silent, or else.

And so…for the rest of the 16 days of activism, you won’t see Philloughby crawl out of his swamp of waste where he has become comfortable hanging out and making deals during his time at the City Council. Shame on you Philloughby; the women of Belize are still awaiting their apology.

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