Barbados opened a new chapter in its history yesterday as the nation became a republic and swears in its own president and Head of State after almost 400 years of colonial bonds.
Following a vote in the country’s House of Assembly and Senate last month, Dame Sandra Mason, the Island’s Governor-General since 2018 was elected as the President. She now replaces Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state.
The swearing in event which coincided with the country’s 55th anniversary of independence marks a new era for Barbados as the nation ends Britain’s centuries of influence.
To signify the official change of power, the Royal Standard flag was lowered and then replaced with the new Barbados flag.
Speaking as a guest at the ceremony, Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, describes how he felt to be invited to the event and his great personal respect for the people of Barbados. He added that emancipation, self-government and independence were the nation’s way-points. Freedom, justice and self-determination have been Barbados’ guide.
Prince Charles expressed further that adding to the treasury of past achievements, collective enterprise and personal courage which already filled pages, the nation moves on to write the next chapter of its history which marks a new beginning and a point on a continuum.
Prince Charles reiterated that despite the change in constitutional status, the continuing ties between Barbados and the UK as vital members of the Commonwealth remains the same.
A 21-gun salute was fired after the midnight event when the nation officially became a republic, marking the beginning of a new era.
Barbadian singer, Rihanna, also attended the event and was declared a national hero.
