Thorne says DLP will not be distracted

Democratic Labour Party political leader Ralph Thorne has brushed aside the emergence of the Friends of Democracy (FOD), saying his party remains focused on challenging the governing Barbados Labour Party.

Earlier this week, FOD president Karina Goodridge said the group of 12 is positioning itself to become the main opposition in Barbados.

She was speaking following the party’s payment of election deposits outside the National Housing Corporation on Friday.

However, addressing reporters on Saturday during the DLP’s rally and islandwide bus tour, Thorne said the party would not be distracted by new political movements or outside developments.

“The main battle of the people of this country is against the Barbados Labour Party,” he said. “We are joining the people of Barbados in fighting the Barbados Labour Party. The other parties will not distract us.”

Thorne also suggested that attempts to divide or weaken the party would not succeed, maintaining that the DLP remains united and focused on the campaign ahead.

He said the party’s priority remains engaging voters across all constituencies and presenting its case to the electorate ahead of polling day.

“All 30 of our candidates are working in their constituencies,” Thorne said. “We are focused on connecting with people and making our case.”

The DLP leader made the comments as the party continued its motorcade and walk-throughs across several communities, stopping to engage residents, distribute campaign material and support candidates.