Opposition parties demand accountability after Cabinet shake-up

Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s Cabinet reshuffle, which saw the departure of two ministers has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability from opposition parties, who have accused the government of failing to address internal discord and governance issues.

On Tuesday, the prime minister announced that Marsha Caddle had resigned as minister of Industry, Innovation, Science and Technology; Corey Lane had stepped down as minister in the Office of the Attorney General with responsibility for Crime Prevention; and Dr Crystal Haynes had resigned as a senator.

At the same time, Jonathan Reid, chief of staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, was appointed as minister of Innovation, Industry, Science and Technology. Four Cabinet members were also reassigned:

• Kay McConney moved from Education to become minister of Economic Affairs and Investment.

• Kirk Humphrey, minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, took on additional responsibility for Crime Prevention.

• Chad Blackman assumed the role of minister of Educational Transformation.

• Sandra Husbands became the new minister of Training and Tertiary Education.

Mottley described the ministerial changes as part of efforts to strengthen her administration’s focus on national priorities.

The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) expressed scepticism. 

“The Democratic Labour Party stands firmly committed to advocating for transparency and accountability within our governance. We are not surprised by these latest developments; they merely expose the cracks beneath the polished surface of the Barbados Labour Party,” DLP President Andre Worrell said in a statement on Wednesday.

“The dust that has settled under the carpet is now being swept away as the questions and concerns of Barbadians take centre stage. The path forward demands a government that listens, engages and acts with integrity. We, the Democratic Labour Party, will continue to be the voice for the people, calling for a government that prioritises the welfare of its citizens over political expediency.” 

The DLP president also offered his party’s interpretation of the reasons behind Caddle’s resignation, Lane’s departure and Haynes’ exit from the Senate, as well as McConney’s reassignment.

He argued that Caddle’s resignation represented a poignant act of conscience that signalled widespread discontent within Mottley’s administration.

 “She chose to sever ties in a way that sent ripples across the political landscape,” he said.

Worrell continued: “Shortly thereafter, the prime minister revealed that Mr Corey Lane, the MP for The City, had graciously stepped down for personal reasons. We extend our best wishes to Mr Lane as he embarks on this new chapter. But it remains imperative for the electorate to scrutinise the underlying motivations behind such transitions.”

Turning his attention to McConney’s transfer from education to economic affairs and investment, Worrell described it as one of necessity rather than strategy. Under her leadership, he said, education faced numerous crises—from a controversial Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)-sponsored survey in schools “that invaded their sanctity” to a distressing simulation exercise at Springer Memorial Secondary School that left emotional scars.

“The frequent closures of schools due to persistent environmental issues—including the long-term closure of Grantley Adams Memorial—have underscored a leadership vacuum that cannot be overlooked,” Worrell declared.

The DLP also attributed Senator Haynes’ resignation to her criticism of plans to demolish the historic Holetown Civic Centre and Police Station. 

“By choosing to sever ties with a dynamic young leader who has garnered support among her peers, the prime minister has not only stifled dissent but alienated a crucial segment of her support base,” Worrell argued.

The United Progressive Party (UPP) also weighed in on recent developments with calls for transparency and accountability from Mottley’s government.

UPP Public Relations Officer Everton “Heru” Holligan.

UPP Public Relations Officer Everton Heru Holligan said in a statement on Wednesday that these Cabinet resignations and reassignments marked a pivotal moment in Barbados’ political landscape—one requiring reflection and renewed commitment to governance that serves its people.

“Leadership must be about accountability, not convenience; decisions affecting people must not be dictated by political expediency,” Holligan declared. “These recent events confirm what many Barbadians have felt for some time—that this administration’s best days are behind it.”

Holligan added: “The UPP does not take joy in these developments but sees them as a clear signal that Barbados is ready for change.” He urged voters to demand governance that is transparent and inclusive while positioning his party as an alternative committed to listening and putting Barbados first.

The UPP commended Caddle for her “unwavering stance on principle.” 

Holligan said: “In allegedly stepping away from her ministerial role, she has demonstrated courage and integrity—reminding us that true leadership is about standing firm in divergence rather than merely holding a title.”

The party also praised Senator Haynes’ bold stance against demolishing Holetown Civic Centre. Holligan criticised her swift removal from office following public dissent on this issue: “Why was her voice silenced? Why is history being cast aside in favour of unchecked tourism development? These are questions every Barbadian must ask.” (EJ)