More than a decade ago, Jamal "Shyne" Barrow was deported from the United States after completing a ten year prison sentence. Today, he's a member of Belize's House of Representatives.
The former Bad Boy Records artist was elected to the position on Wednesday. He will replace his uncle, Michael Finnegan, who announced that he would run for office again back in 2017. He is the latest in his family to join the political realm. Finnegan served in office and his father, Dean Barrow, became the country's first Black Prime Minister in 2008.
In taking on this new role, the former New York rapper will represent the constituency of Mesopotamia in Belize City as a member of the United Democratic Party.
“This victory is for all those who are just like me in Mesopotamia, Belize and the world over," Barrow said.
“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!”
Joining the celebration, Sean "Diddy" Combs endorsed Barrow's new career path. The two worked together for years through the legendary Bad Boy Records imprint.
“I’m so proud of my brother [Shyne] and the journey he is on,” Combs said.
Barrow will step in to his new role and leave behind his previous position as Belize's Ambassador of Music.
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