Barbados’ transition to a republic on its 55th birthday of Independence will be highlighted by the first speech to the country by President-elect Dame Sandra Mason, along with an address by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, during a ceremony that will commence the night before, and ease into the early hours of November 30.
The Freedom of Barbados medal will be conferred on both during the ceremony at National Heroes Square in Bridgetown. The Oath of Allegiance and swearing in of Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Attorney General Dale Marshall will also highlight the main event.
Details for the island’s celebration plans were revealed yesterday during a press briefing hosted by Minister of Innovation and Smart Technology, Senator Kay McConney.
It was also attended by Chief of Staff of the Barbados Defence Force, Commodore Errington Shurland, chief executive officer of the National Cultural Foundation, Carol Roberts-Reifer, Cabinet Secretary Hughland Allman, and Chief Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George.
“We are completing what we started, the journey of Independence, and this leads us to a state with a Barbadian as a head of state. We have so much to be proud of as a country.
“Barbados will still be known as Barbados,” she added, while revealing that dignitaries from around the world would be in attendance.
In addition to the special event that starts on November 29 at 11 p.m. and runs into Independence Day, other events are planned in the lead-up and they will be livestreamed.
November 23 to 24
Parliamentary debates on the Barbados Charter.
November 25 – 10 a.m.
Special commemorative rum to be launched by Mount Gay Distilleries.
November 26 – 10:30 a.m.
Launch of CAIPO Digitisation Project
November 27
Official opening of Golden Square 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
This event will be live streamed. Maximum of 145 people.
November 28 at 10 a.m.
National Service of Thanksgiving. This will last 90 minutes at Garfield Sobers Complex. Event will be live streamed
- Consecration of new military colours.
- Flotilla at 2 p.m.
- Prince of Wales to arrive
November 29
- Ceremony of the installation of the President of Barbados beginning at 11 p.m.
- This will involve the Declaration of Barbados as a republic. (BA/KG)
