Hidden away between Guatemala and Mexico, Belize is the most beautiful land in Central America. Informally dubbed “The Jewel of the Caribbean,” Belize is a virtual paradise.

Hip-Hop heads may take particular interest in the country for a reason other than the lush beaches and beautiful people. It’s a little-known fact that the new Prime Minister, Dean Marrow, is rapper Shyne’s father.

Barrow, a member of the United Democratic Party (UDP), was inaugurated in March. At his inauguration he borrowed the words of Gerald Ford, proclaiming “Our nightmare is over!” Like many of the Islands, its picture perfect views bring to mind (Haiti, Jamaica), Belize was a European colony, particularly British, until 1981.

The history of Belize shows that even after having won “independence,” rarely were the long term interests of the newly liberated people of the nation looked after. The “nightmare” Barrow was referring to, was wrestling control of the country from the Peoples United Party (PUP). The prior incumbent and member of PUP was Said Musa, a lawyer, who was plagued by scandals and accusations of embezzlement, as was his party.

Prime Minister Barrow mentioned that having a rapper for a son helped appeal to younger voters, but here in the US, fans familiar with Shyne’s mother’s side of the story, have accused Dean Barrow of deserting his wife and son. –Christopher Williams