BARBADOS’ ONLY LIVING National Hero Sir Garfield St Aubrun Sobers has been credited with playing a significant role in helping the island to gain its independence in 1966.
That is according to Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, who told thousands of spectators at Kensington Oval yesterday evening for the Sir Garry Not Out ICBL T20 Cricket Party, that Sir Garry’s memorable and unparalleled performance during the West Indies’ tour of England in 1966 gave Barbadians the assurance that they needed to become independent.
“The 80th birthday of Sir Garfield Sobers coincides with the 50th anniversary of Barbados’ independence and therefore I think it is especially appropriate that we should be here this evening to celebrate with Sir Garry. But we are here for another reason which I will share for you,” the Prime Minister explained.
He went on to reveal that although members of Parliament voted 14 to 8 in favour of Barbados gaining its independence, there was still some doubt as to whether or not we should have proceeded. (RB)
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