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The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has reiterated its opposition to granting arrest powers to soldiers, labeling the move as a ‘dangerous precedent.’ This comes as joint training sessions commence for members of the Barbados Defence Force (BDF) and the Police Service, part of the government’s implementation of the controversial Police (Amendment) Act 2025. The Act permits BDF personnel to assist police in maintaining law and order, a measure CTUSAB General Secretary Dennis de Peiza strongly criticizes. Speaking to Barbados TODAY, de Peiza emphasized that the union’s stance remains unchanged since it first raised concerns earlier this year. He argued that empowering the military with policing responsibilities fundamentally alters the nature of law enforcement. ‘Any time you empower the Defence [Force] in policing, you change the whole idea of what policing is about,’ he stated. ‘You are giving soldiers now the powers to arrest people. That, to my mind, is creating a dangerous precedent in any state.’ De Peiza warned that blurring the lines between military and police duties could have severe consequences, citing global examples where such practices led to negative outcomes. He stressed that the existing law clearly delineates the separate roles of the BDF and the Police Service, with the latter solely responsible for maintaining law and order. ‘Police are trained to police, with the powers to arrest and investigate. Soldiers are trained to kill; they’re trained to secure the country and in that, they have a power to shoot for a purpose,’ he explained. ‘Therefore, let them do what they’re supposed to do and let the police do what they’re supposed to do. There’s no compromising on that.’ De Peiza also challenged the government’s rationale for involving soldiers in law enforcement, particularly amid rising concerns about violent crime. ‘If you are short on policemen, go and get policemen,’ he urged. ‘We are talking about opening doors to Caribbean nationals, freedom of movement: seek policemen. But don’t ever try to compromise the whole process by trying to justify a means to an end… and that’s what we’re doing.’ Over the past year, Barbados has experienced a surge in serious crimes, including armed robberies, murders, and gang-related incidents involving young men. Public anxiety over national security has led to calls for stronger measures, with government officials defending the involvement of soldiers as necessary. However, de Peiza cautioned that short-term security gains should not come at the expense of democratic norms.

In a historic display of bipartisan unity, retired Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic was confirmed as Barbados’ second president on Tuesday. The joint sitting of the House of Assembly and Senate witnessed no objections to his appointment, a rare occurrence that highlighted his widespread national appeal and reputation for dependable leadership. The announcement was met with enthusiastic desk-thumping from members across the political spectrum, symbolizing collective endorsement.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley has lauded President-elect Jeffrey Bostic as a leader of exceptional caliber, capable of uniting Barbados during challenging times. Speaking at a joint session of Parliament on Tuesday, Mottley emphasized Bostic’s proven leadership, moral authority, and ability to command respect across all societal sectors. His nomination, jointly proposed by Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, was unanimously approved by MPs and senators, marking the transition from outgoing President Sandra Mason, whose term concludes on November 30. Mottley highlighted Bostic’s extensive experience in policy development, strategic planning, and multi-disciplinary coordination, underscoring his integrity and deep commitment to Barbados. She described him as a figure who embodies both tradition and progress, bridging divides between military and civilian leadership, national and regional security, and generations of Barbadians. Bostic’s academic and military achievements, including studies at the Inter-American Defence College and the National War College, further attest to his qualifications. Mottley also paid tribute to outgoing President Sandra Mason, praising her grace and dignity in office and her role as a model for Barbadian girls. Bostic’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was cited as evidence of his unifying capabilities, making him an ideal choice for the presidency.

As Barbados prepares for a historic presidential transition on Independence Day, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic, the incoming President, has been called upon to lead the nation with unwavering resolve and a commitment to justice and unity. Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne emphasized the critical role of the head of state in navigating the nation through both calm and turbulent times, urging Bostic to rise above partisan divides and focus on the broader interests of the country. Speaking at a joint parliamentary session convened for the election of the head of state, Thorne invoked the metaphor of the ‘ship of State,’ highlighting the need for stability, wisdom, and a sense of justice in leadership. Thorne, who represents Christ Church South and leads the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), expressed his support for Bostic’s nomination, stressing that the presidency, while a political office, must transcend partisanship. He appealed to all Barbadians, including skeptics and conspiracy theorists, to set aside bitterness and rancor, emphasizing the importance of respect and unity in this pivotal moment. Thorne underscored the DLP’s commitment to doing what is right for the nation’s future, calling for order, stability, and prosperity under Bostic’s leadership. He concluded with a hopeful prayer that the new President would embody wisdom, maturity, and justice, ensuring a bright future for Barbados.