Eric Chang
Former Deputy Mayor, Eric Chang, who has been away in Taiwan on an extended leave of absence, returned to Belize today. The councilor departed for his home country along with Belize City Mayor Darrell Bradley in early September on an official visit. While away, Chang’s name was called in a passport scandal, involving erstwhile Minister of State Elvin Penner, in which it is alleged that he attempted to convey a fraudulent Belizean travel document to imprisoned South Korean national Won Hong Kim. The businessman, who was wanted by authorities for his involvement in white-collar crime, was imprisoned in Taipei awaiting extradition when Chang reportedly attempted to visit him. But Chang’s name was linked in missing visa foils at the western border. Chang has been wanted for questioning at City Hall for his alleged involvement in the Kim fiasco. Prime Minister Dean Barrow, during that time, also went on record to say that there is no proof to implicate Chang in any wrongdoing related to the Penner passport scandal and Chang stayed away indefinitely citing illness in his family. Notwithstanding numerous attempts by Mayor Bradley to get in touch with him, he was subsequently stripped of his office and portfolio. In speaking with the media on several occasions, Mayor Bradley has indicated that a meeting with Chang would be the first order of business upon his return. News Five contacted Bradley this afternoon inquiring about Chang’s arrival. Well, that was news to the mayor, but he soon confirmed that Chang had spoken with a fellow councilor. Whether that sit-down was indeed held this evening we are not certain, however, the mayor has reserved comment until Wednesday.
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