#BTSpeakingOut – The new republic

The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of Barbados TODAY.

by Rollins Howard

On 30th November, 2021, our island nation, Barbados, will divest itself of the trappings of colonialism and the monarchical system of government and embrace its new status as a republic in the Commonwealth of Nations.

Whilst the decision to become a republic has been made, what type of republic we will embark on is still to be determined.

This final decision will be made within the next two years after comprehensive consultation with the widest possible cross section of Barbadians and others who will have an interest in the outcome.

The initial reference point will be our existing constitution.

This to me seems to be akin to a cricket match which the opposing teams have agreed is necessary and which will be played using the 42 Laws of Cricket.

The joke, however, is that having agreed to play a match, determined venue and date, they have not decided if it will be a test match, a first-class match, a one-day match or a T20 match. They have also not made a decision on the playing conditions which will govern the game.

These details will be determined after intense consultations with the spectators and media personnel who have come to watch the match.

Whilst I have no philosophical objection to Barbados becoming a republic, I do believe that the bowler’s delivery action is a little suspect.