THERE IS A feeling of uncertainty across Barbados, arising from the serious prevailing economic challenges and changing social circumstances.
It demands that our elected leaders address the issues which impact on this island in a candid manner. None more so than Prime Minister Freundel Stuart must connect with all his countrymen.
The need to embrace the country and let them know where his administration is taking them is important given the myriad of issues which the country faces. The many people from both the public and private sectors now jobless and with no bright future on the horizon, the struggle businesses face to stay afloat and the challenge for the country to earn foreign exchange are all real issues.
Clearly this is not the time to uphold the status quo nor is it a time for Mr Stuart to turn his back on critics, political opponents or those who simply voice an opposing view, but only because of their sincere concern on the way forward for their beloved homeland.
Prime Minister Stuart must recognise that he has to be different from past leaders. The circumstances demand such given the varied challenges the country is going through. His presence must be constant and strong as his actions will touch and impact on many people.
Given the need for there to be confidence in our economy, the society and its leaders, Mr Stuart must lead the process by reaching out to the Barbadian public and taking us all into his confidence. While we expect the Prime Minister to remain honest and true to his values, his style needs to change. This is not the time to worry about Democratic Labour Party loyalists or even whether a change in his actions will result in a drop in popularity.
This is not the time for Mr Stuart to be cold and distant, recognising that he must be different in a good way. In these times of anxiety and uncertainty for many individuals and corporate entities this is not the time for this country’s leader to be withdrawn. Rather, Mr Stuart must be able to show sympathy and understanding of the plight supporters and opponents across this land are encountering day and night.
On the other hand, the Barbadian public must connect with and trust their political leader. As the individual in that vaulted position, Mr Stuart must take responsibility for everything; both the bad and the good. He must not shift the blame either on the privileged class or political opponents. This situation is not about others, but about you.
The job of the Barbados Prime Minister is to make this 166-square-mile “rock” a better place. Its citizens expect the current office holder to make a change in their lives for the better. In these times he needs to engage and inspire the entire nation.
Mr Stuart, we urge you, speak to the Barbadian public.