In a significant political development, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley declared the dissolution of Parliament on Saturday evening, initiating the formal process for national elections scheduled for February 11. The announcement came during a gathering with supporters in Bridgetown, where Mottley revealed she had formally advised President Jeffrey Bostic of her decision earlier that afternoon.
The constitutional process will commence on Monday, January 19, with official writs of election to be prepared under the supervision of the Attorney General. The electoral timetable establishes January 27 as nomination day for candidates, followed by a two-week campaign period leading to polling day on February 11.
Mottley’s announcement followed the nomination of former Democratic Labour Party Cabinet minister Michael Lashley as the Barbados Labour Party’s candidate for the City of Bridgetown constituency. Addressing party officials and supporters, the Prime Minister emphasized unity and collective effort, repeatedly invoking the party’s strength through collaboration.
Framing the dissolution as an essential democratic practice, Mottley stated that continuing leadership requires seeking a fresh mandate from the electorate. Her remarks highlighted the constitutional normality of the process while signaling the Barbados Labour Party’s readiness to contest the upcoming general election.