Barbados first parliament session begins since Island became republic

The first session of the Barbados parliament since the island became a republic began on Friday, with President Dame Sandra Mason

Bridgetown: The first session of the Barbados parliament since the island became a republic began on Friday, with President Dame Sandra Mason outlining the government’s priorities for the national transformation.

She assured legislators that the PM Mia Mottley led administration, which won all 30 seats in the general election on January 19, will construct a more robust nation-state in which “everyone has a fair share.”

“Fifty-five years after it began, we can proudly proclaim that our sovereignty as an independent nation is now genuinely ours,” she remarked, her gaze fixed on the horizon.

“In doing so, we are reminded of the words of George Lamming, a renowned Barbadian writer, who said, The architecture of our future is not only unfinished; the scaffolding has hardly gone up,” the Head of State said, adding that Barbadians must now commit themselves to the higher calling of building such architecture.

Salute Ceremony of President Dame Sandra Mason outside Barbados Parliament
Salute Ceremony of President Dame Sandra Mason outside Barbados Parliament

She stated that the government’s approach will be based on five core values: people-centered leadership, government that delivers for all, pride and industry, as well as innovation that drives opportunity and increases citizen participation in governance; property ownership, which will result in the region’s largest property-owning democracy.

“Through these drivers of national transformation, my government is dedicated to building a new prosperity for all citizens; improved governance; enhanced polity, and a more engaged citizenry,” she stated.

Barbados was officially recognised as the world ‘s latest republic on November 30. When it became a British colony more than 400 years ago, it legally deposed Queen Elizabeth II as the country’s supreme head of state.

Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, 72, was sworn in as the first President of Barbados on Tuesday, February 12. Earlier this year, Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley designated singer Rihanna, who was born in the country, a national hero.