Bostic to ‘bow out of politics before next election’

 In a stunning development, the former army officer turned minister who has helmed the nation’s battle against the coronavirus, announced late Thursday he will not stand for Parliament in the next general election, due in 2023, Barbados TODAY has learned. 

Minister of Health and Wellness Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic who has emerged as a straight-shooting, matter-of-fact speaker in several appearances with his now trademark ‘no retreat, no surrender’ motto, told a branch meeting of his City of Bridgetown constituency held virtually on Thursday night that he was stepping away from public life. 

A shocked constituent reported Lt Col Bostic telling the members he wanted to spend more time with his family after serving his country as a member of the Barbados Defence Force and in politics. 

He has served in several senior positions in the army, rising to the rank of Commanding Officer of the Barbados Regiment. He also did a two-year tour of duty with the Regional Security System and served as Aide-de-Camp to Governor-General Sir Hugh Springer. 

Lt Col Bostic was first elected to the House of Assembly in the February 21, 2013 General Election. 

He retained The City seat in the May 24, 2018 election and was appointed Minister of Health and Wellness in the Mia Mottley administration. (BT)