In a strategic move one week before Barbados’ general election, the emerging political force Friends of Democracy (FOD) has significantly strengthened its grassroots infrastructure in St James parish with the inauguration of a new constituency office. The Thorpes Main Road facility officially commenced operations Thursday during a ceremony featuring FOD candidates Matthew Thorne (St James South), Steffanie Williams (St James North), and Kerry Thomas (St James Central).
Matthew Thorne characterized the opening as a pivotal achievement for both the fledgling party and St James residents, emphasizing the office’s symbolic importance. “This represents the essence of our political philosophy – governance rooted in service and active community participation,” Thorne declared to supporters. “This space will function as a communal hub where constituents can directly engage with representatives, presenting ideas, challenges, and concerns.”
The three candidates collectively framed their campaign as a historic departure from traditional Barbadian politics. Thorne noted that despite the party’s recent establishment – existing for merely seven months – canvassing efforts have yielded unexpectedly positive responses. “Voter engagement has been intense yet remarkably rewarding,” he observed. “There’s palpable public intrigue toward our alternative movement, largely driven by widespread dissatisfaction with established political entities.”
Thorne attributed their receptiveness to growing citizen frustration with conventional party politics. “Barbadians have grown weary of the perpetual pendulum swing between dominant parties that have become too institutionalized to address constituent needs effectively. Our campaign offers a beacon of hope for substantive change.”
Steffanie Williams outlined her strategy for the final campaign week, emphasizing intensified voter outreach despite recognizing pervasive electoral apathy. “My mission involves maximizing direct voter contact through comprehensive canvassing operations while persistently communicating our transformative message,” Williams stated. She issued a compelling plea for democratic participation: “Barbados cannot endure another parliamentary monopoly. I urgently encourage all eligible citizens to exercise their fundamental voting rights.”
The St James office inauguration signifies FOD’s commitment to localized representation and symbolizes the party’s ambitious attempt to reshape Barbados’ political landscape through community-centered democracy.