Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Ralph Thorne has emphatically dismissed the emergence of the Friends of Democracy (FOD) political group, asserting his party’s undivided commitment to confronting the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP). Thorne’s remarks came during the DLP’s weekend rally and comprehensive islandwide bus tour, where he addressed media inquiries regarding the new political movement.
The FOD, led by president Karina Goodridge, recently formalized its political ambitions by submitting election deposits at the National Housing Corporation. Goodridge declared the 12-member group’s intention to establish itself as Barbados’ primary opposition force. Nevertheless, Thorne characterized such developments as peripheral distractions that would not divert the DLP from its central objective.
“The fundamental struggle for Barbados citizens remains against the Barbados Labour Party,” Thorne stated unequivocally. “We stand united with the people in this confrontation. External political entities will not fragment our concentration.” The opposition leader further emphasized the DLP’s organizational cohesion and strategic focus, suggesting any attempts to fracture or diminish the party would prove unsuccessful.
Thorne outlined the party’s ground strategy, revealing that all 30 DLP candidates are actively campaigning within their respective constituencies. The political movement included extensive motorcades and community walk-throughs, facilitating direct voter engagement, distribution of campaign materials, and candidate support. Thorne reiterated that the party’s paramount priority remains presenting their platform to the electorate ahead of the impending polling day through persistent constituency-level mobilization.