Yesterday (November 11th) the people of the country elected the former rap star to the Belize House of Representatives. The ex-rapper will officially represent the Mesopotamia District in Belize City on behalf of the United Democratic Party.
Shyne, real name Moses Barrow, served 14 years in prison in the United States for a shooting in Manhattan in 1999 involving Sean Diddy Combs and his then-girlfriend, Jennifer Lopez.
Shyne, who converted to Orthodox Judaism during his time incarcerated, was released in October of 2009 and deported to Belize. He successfully launched a career in politics, serving as the country’s Ambassador Of Music.
“This victory is for all those who are just like me in Mesopotamia, Belize and the world over! All those who have taken a fall! All those who have stumbled on their life’s journey,” Shyne told his supporters. “We all fall! But to get up and walk, run and rise again is the purpose of life! We are all destined to be challenged but we are all capable of overcoming those challenges! My story is testament of human fortitude! We all have what I have! We just have to dig deep within and find it! I hope I inspire everyone to overcome their adversities and find their greatness!”
While Shyne celebrated a victory, (as did his aunt Denise “Sista B.” Barrow), the UDP did not fare so well in the general election.
The UDP”s candidate Patrick Faber lost to former Prime Minister Johnny Briceno.
Despite his party’s loss, Shyne vowed to represent all Belizeans as the country struggles to rebuild its economy as the nation tries to control the spread of the coronavirus.
“To all those who voted for me I promise to continue to deliver for you in every way over the next 5 years! To all those who didn’t vote for me, I promise to spend the next 5 years working tirelessly to earn your trust and support,” Shyme vowed.”