Chief Justice, Security Chiefs head 2025 National Honours List

Chief Justice Leslie Haynes is the sole recipient of the Order of Freedom of Barbados for 2025, topping the list of National Honours announced on Friday by the Office of the President.

President Dame Sandra Mason, acting under the Barbados National Honours and Decorations Act 2021, consented to the conferment of the country’s highest national honours on the holders of three key offices: Chief Justice, Chief of Staff of the Barbados Defence Force, and Commissioner of Police.
Justice Haynes was recognised for his “significant contributions to the legal framework and social stability of the nation,” including upholding the rule of law, maintaining the integrity of the legal system, and ensuring that the Constitution is interpreted and applied impartially.

The citation also highlighted his role in safeguarding judicial independence and overseeing the administration of justice to guarantee fair and equitable access for all.

The Order of the Republic, the nation’s second-highest award, was conferred on Commissioner of Police Richard Boyce and Brigadier Carlos Lovell, Chief of Staff of the Barbados Defence Force.

Commissioner Boyce was honoured for “exemplary leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service in maintaining peace and public safety, fostering trust within communities, and upholding law and order.”

Brigadier Lovell was recognised for “demonstrated leadership, discipline, service and dedication to national security,” as well as his role in strategic defence planning, crisis response, and disaster relief.

The annual awards, which celebrate extraordinary service to Barbados and the wider Caribbean community, were formally announced with an embargo until noon on Friday, October 10. The President’s Office confirmed that the awards were made in accordance with the Act establishing the Order of Barbados.