Keep democratic principles alive

INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGES 2022

Dennis De Peiza

General Secretary, CTUSAB

 

 The lowering of the Union Jack and the hoisting of the Barbados National Flag at midnight on November 30, 1966, marked the celebration of a historical change in the political life of Barbados. It heralded the break from colonial rule under the British government to the institution of political freedom, which is known as independence.

The transition to independence came from the early struggles which were fought by slaves such as National Hero Bussa and his counterpart Cuffy, who themselves became martyrs for the cause of freedom.

Barbadians cannot forget the legacy left by our National Heroes, the Right Excellent Sir Grantley Hubert Adams and Errol Walton Barrow, who were major champions in the cause of achieving independence status for Barbados.

While Barbados has recently transitioned from independence status to that of a Parliamentary Republic, it must be forever etched in the minds of Barbadians that the attainment of political independence was the foundation for effecting the change to Republican status.

The symbolism of the change resides in the fact the British Monarch is no longer recognised as the island’s head of state. What remains a constant and dominant feature of the governance arrangements of the island is the observance of democratic principles and practices.

The institutionalising of democratic ideals and the establishing of constitutional, political, civil and human rights of the people, underscore what independence means to the people of Barbados.

There is a significant historical value attached to the celebration of Independence, part of which is the observance of the legacy of those pioneers who championed the cause of freedom. The annual celebration of Independence Day is to serve as a constant reminder to Barbadians of where we have come from and who we are as a people.

As the nation reflects on the occasion of its 56th anniversary of nationhood, Barbadians can only but be proud of the growth and development of the nation to date. Notwithstanding that this is to be celebrated, it is advisable that, in looking ahead, attention is paid to preserving the fundamentals that are critical to nation building. The country must, therefore, continue to push back against any form of unilateral and arbitrary decision-making by the political directorate on matters of national importance. There must be a demand for the process of consultation with the people and social partners to be observed. Equally, there must be a requirement that the practice of good governance is not compromised through the lack of transparency and accountability. Moreover, with the understanding that power resides in the people, it is important that the political directorate respects the will of the people.

Barbadians should become more vocal in their condemnation of the threats to the nation’s value system and its morals, the marginalisation of labour in the governance and decision-making process, and the move away from a state of inclusiveness which only serves to divide the nation.

As the nation looks towards the future and to further consolidating itself as a small island developing state which is recognised as a global leader in many respects, it is imperative that all those who lead at the political level and who head national institutions, understand the importance of a united Barbados. This is ably represented under the slogans, ‘One People One Voice’ and ‘We Are in This Together’.

Happy 56th Anniversary of Independence to Barbados, and may this nation continue to grow in unity and strength, and with pride and industry.