Change in Barbados

David Thompson, leader of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), who has waited years for the day to be declared the next prime minister will now officially see his patience reap as he is sworn in as PM today.

Right now my family and other Barbadian expatriates living here in NY are discussing the news that Owen Arthur, leader of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) is no longer Barbados’ prime minister after 13 years in power. I’m hugely disappointed because from what I see he’s been a great leader for the island. Just look at how strong Barbados is today – it has one of the strongest economies in the Caribbean.

I remember when I was 18, I went over there to spend time with family in my gap year before university, it was also a time when the Barbados general elections were taking place. I went to rallies, which were always colourful occasions, watched campaign motorcades (trucks) with sound systems blaring music, horns tooting and heard speeches made by party members. Owen had so much support behind him that it was no surprise that he stayed in power. Nine years on the island has continued to grow and become one of the most fruitful islands in the West Indies.

I’m a person who always thinks change is good. Although I would have liked to see Owen Arthur continue as prime minister because he was doing a good job, I’m also keen to see what new direction Thompson will take the island. Barbadians have voted him in for a reason, perhaps its change they want and as I say change can only be a good thing.