BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Barbados marked a significant constitutional milestone with the inauguration of Jeffrey Bostic as the nation’s second president during its 59th independence anniversary celebrations, which also commemorated its fourth year as a parliamentary republic. The swearing-in ceremony occurred in the early hours of Sunday, symbolizing a new chapter in the nation’s governance.
President Bostic, a distinguished former Minister of Health and decorated military officer within the Barbados Defence Force (BDF), rose to national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. His steadfast leadership during the 2020 health crisis, characterized by his resolute motto ‘No Retreat, No Surrender,’ garnered widespread admiration and was instrumental in navigating the country through one of its most difficult periods. He assumes the presidency following Dame Sandra Mason, who transitioned from being the final Governor-General under the monarchical system (2018-2021) to becoming the inaugural president of the republic.
Ensuring security for the high-profile event, the Barbadian government formally requested assistance from the Regional Security System (RSS). This strategic deployment, comprising police and military personnel from member states including Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Guyana, and St Kitts and Nevis, was activated under the RSS treaty provisions for mutual support, underscoring the event’s regional importance.
Concurrently, the nation honored several distinguished citizens with its highest accolade, the Order of Freedom of Barbados. Central Bank Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge was recognized for his transformative and people-centric economic leadership, particularly through the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation programmes. Cricket icon Joel ‘Big Bird’ Garner was honored for his extraordinary contributions to the sport, from his legendary career as a fast bowler to his administrative roles with the Barbados Cricket Association and West Indies management. Economist and philanthropist Dr. Kurt Lambert was also awarded for his distinguished service. Furthermore, an honorary award was bestowed upon Professor Benedict Okechukwu Oramah, former president of the African Export-Import Bank, for his pivotal role in strengthening trade and investment ties between Barbados and the bank’s member states.